An incredible legacy at Ascension St. Elizabeth

Jim and his daughter Kelly

Jim Cotter was many things — a dedicated police officer and chief, a proud Air Force veteran, a skilled pilot and aviation instructor, a loving husband, father and brother. But above all, he was a truly remarkable person whose kindness and generosity left an unforgettable impact on everyone who knew him.

Jim made it his mission to make the world a better place, and he did just that for thousands of individuals in the Fox Valley, including countless patients at Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital, a place that he held near and dear to his heart as he, his wife and kids, and their respective siblings, were all born there.

Jim was called to his final resting place on March 13, 2023, but his legacy of generosity will live on for decades. Through a lifetime of generosity, and a thoughtful estate gift, he, and his late wife Mary, entrusted great support to Ascension Wisconsin Foundation directed toward Ascension St. Elizabeth.

“My dad sincerely believed in working to make the world a better place,” said Colleen (Kelly) Cotter, Jim’s eldest. “He wanted us to 'remember the poor,' and to help people in need. When he saw a need, he did everything he could to make sure it was fulfilled. He really believed in the care at St. Elizabeth, and especially their longstanding, founding Mission of providing care for all.”

Over the last 15 years, Jim made incredible things possible for patients who sought care at Ascension St. Elizabeth. His generosity funded the purchase of a NICU transport incubator, car seats, Pack ‘N Plays, a new wound chair and many other special projects throughout the hospital.

His generosity didn't stop there. When the world shut down in 2020 due to the pandemic, Jim helped our healthcare heroes receive the nourishment they needed, taking orders and dropping off lunch, each meal delivered with an extra serving of love.

 That kind, giving heart is something Jim exemplified throughout his 87 years of life.

Jim’s generosity extended throughout the Fox Valley. He’s still remembered as ‘Grandpa Cookie’ at his parish church school for the years he spent baking at Christmas, visiting each classroom with two cookies per child, teachers and staff with the all-important message of ‘one for you, one to share’, extending a legacy of sharing.

“My dad used both his brain and heart. He put a lot of thought and research into his giving, and always worked to fill the needs of others,” Kelly reminisced. “He taught us to do the best we can in the world and to make a positive difference.”

While Jim may have passed on to his final resting place with his wife, Mary, whom he shared 53 years of love with, his giving spirit lives on.

His legacy remains in the hearts of those who knew him, and the countless lives he touched — as well as those he will continue to impact in the years to come — all of whom will forever be marked by his kindness, generosity and unwavering support.