Obituary of Edward E. Cote

Edward E. Cote, 93, of Salem, died Tuesday afternoon at the Kaplan Family Hospice House following a brief illness. He was the devoted husband of Mary (O’Neill) Cote with whom he shared over 65 years of marriage. Born in Salem, he was the son of the late Emile and Diana (Dube) Cote. He was educated and a lifelong resident of Salem. Edward was a veteran of World War II who served as a staff sergeant in the United States Marine Corps from 1942 until 1946. He saw combat in the South Pacific on the island of Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. His decorations included the Combat Infantry Badge, two Purple Heart Medals, the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, and a Presidential Unit Citation. He also was the recipient of the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre and Combat Action Ribbons with three service stars compact and meritorious service award. He also served in the Korean War for one year from 1950 until 1951. After his military service, he opened his own garage, Cote's Garage in Salem, and was a mechanic for over 42 years before retiring in the 1990’s. He also was a member of the 2nd Corps Cadets Veterans Association. Besides his wife, he is survived by a sister, Rita and her husband Richard Lussier of Amesbury and formerly of Peabody and by several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Raymond and Lou Cote, and Blanche Thibault. His visiting hours will be held on Friday from 10:00 until 11:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:30 at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St., Peabody to which relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Burial will be in Cedar Grove Cemetery, Peabody. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Kaplan Family Hospice House, 78 Liberty St., Danvers, MA 01923.