It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James (Jamie) Arthur Cotter at the age of 64, in Kanata, Ontario.
Born in Brandon, Manitoba, Jamie was the beloved son of the late James Arthur and Ellen Muriel. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Marie Isabelle Stefcyzk (née Anderson), and his cherished sons, Andrew Hamish (Madison Lee) and Douglas Francis. He was a loving brother to Jane Ellen Trites (Glenn) and a proud uncle to Sara, Morgan, Maeve, Brent, and Grant.
Jamie served Canada with honour and distinction for over 42 years in the Royal Canadian Navy, retiring at the rank of Captain (RCN). He was the Commanding Officer of HMCS CATARAQUI, a position where he served with tremendous pride. Jamie’s leadership and dedication later took him across the world, highlighted by his appointment as the Canadian Defence Attaché in Seoul where he forged lasting relationships and helped strengthen ties between Canada and the Korean community — this exposure to the beautiful country of Korea remained close to his heart long after his posting was complete.
An avid skier and cyclist, Jamie found joy and balance in the outdoors. He was an active and dedicated volunteer at the Calabogie Freestyle Ski Club, contributing his time and leadership to help foster a positive and successful environment for athletes and families alike. He was also passionate about travelling and seeing the world in his retirement with his wife Marie.
Jamie held degrees from Carleton University (BA), Queen’s University (MBA), and earned his Master of Defence Studies from the Canadian Forces College. Jamie was a man of intellect, high integrity, and quiet resolve—always ready to step up when leadership was needed. Jamie will be remembered as a builder of bridges, a bearer of diplomacy, and a quiet pillar of strength.
Jamie maintained a close bond with both his cherished sons, forged through a shared love of skiing. Together, they created countless and deeply treasured memories travelling the world, chasing snow and adventure as a family.
A service will be held on Tuesday, July 22nd at 9:30 a.m. at Beechwood National Memorial Center, in Ottawa. Serving military members are invited to wear dress uniforms with medals, and veterans are invited to wear medals.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Jamie’s memory may be made to Wounded Warriors Canada, an organization he was passionate about.
Digital Guestbook
Ian Holloway
Sean Batte
He was a peaceful mentor and fine gentleman. Fair winds Captain.
Evan Boettger, Commander RCN (Ret'd)
Time flies, my dear friend. My first memory of you predates our naval service back to Colonel By Secondary School almost 50 years ago. As a trick of frozen time, I always think of you as my young friend, though only three years my junior....a distinction that makes little sense at our age.
Since that time our paths crossed many times and it was always a pleasure and honour to be in your company to enjoy your sharp wit and dry humour. I recall our participation in regatta shenanigans as subordinate officers at HMCS Carleton. Many years later I also vividly recall you, Sylvain and I challenging each other preparing for our Command Boards. The best of times. You grew and matured into a competent, charismatic and caring leader of both our people and our institution.
In recent years, and especially since your retirement, our monthly "shipmate" suppers together with Daniel were highlights of my social calendar. At every dinner, we were so glad to hear of stories when you, alongside Marie, represented Canada with such distinction in South Korea. Rest assured, we will keep your seat open at the table with fond remembrance of good times and of lifetimes of service shared together. You are already missed, my friend.
Paul D Smith CPO (ret)
Sending condolences to Marie, Andrew, Douglas and families. I had the pleasure of serving with Capt(N) Cotter at NAVRES HQ in the early2000’s, I fell ill and had to go under medical treatment, Jamie’s compassion, support and genuine caring during this time and afterwards was of great significance to me. He was a well respected Officer by all ranks and especially among his peer’s. May you take comfort knowing we share in your loss and strength from our prayers. Rest in Peace my good man!
Andrea Leask
Condolences to Marie, Andrew, Doug & family. I was fortunate to have Jamie as my “ski buddy” on many weekends at our local ski hill when the boys were busy with freestyle skiing activities. I remember Jamie as a quiet , kind person, always willing to help out and be involved. Jamie will be sadly missed. I hope the many wonderful memories of your family times together will give you comfort. Thinking of you all.
Brian Cook, Commander (ret'd)
My late wife Christine, Captain (N), and I were honoured to call Jaime a friend. He made a great contribution to Canada, the RCN, and the Naval Reserve, touching many lives.
Hugues Létourneau
Jamie was a respected colleague and friend. He was frank and direct, something I always admired about him. My sincerest condolences to Marie and their children. He left us too soon.
Craig Duffin and Gillian Wheeler
We are both very saddened to see that Jamie has passed away. Please accept our sincerest condolences. I attended Carleton University with Jamie. He was a kind and gentle person. C and G
Gordon McLennan CPO1(Ret'd)
I was saddened to hear of Jamie’s passing. My condolences to his family for your loss. I worked with Jamie for several years, both in and out of the country. I have many fond memories of working with him. He was an excellent officer, a true leader, and a great guy! He was someone I am proud to call a friend. He is gone way too soon.
Calm seas and a following wind, shipmate Jamie.
David Sissing
I was saddened to hear of Jamie's passing. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends for their loss. I knew Jamie as a roommate while attending Carleton University and was on the receiving end of his sense of humor. He was instrumental in enabling me to become a Reserves member for the Ceremonial Guard, an experience for which I'm greatful.
My memories of Jamie are of a great leader, an intelligent person with unquestionable integrity. Clear skies, fair winds, calm seas Jamie
Marie and Family,
Please accept my sincerest condolences. Jamie and I were the same age, and we joined the Navy around the same time. As young sailors, we served together, and many years later, we were shipmates at HMCS Carleton. He was a wonderful person in every way. He was completely committed to duty. But what I remember especially is life together in the messdeck. His sense of humour was lively, and he was always really with a smile to cheer you up when you were down. He represented the very best of the RCN, and the whole naval family will miss him. Vale, Jamie. Requiescat in pace, old shipmate.