of Allegan, formerly of Muskegon, died September 3, 2011. Age 73 years. He was born March 1, 1938, the son of the late Elmer and Marion (Moon) Cotton. He was veteran of the United States Army. He was a member of American Legion Post #7 in Caro, Michigan. Elmer worked for Cashway Lumber in Muskegon for 32 years. He also worked in home construction. He loved to hunt, fish, build and spend time with his family. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Marilyn (Harger) Cotton; two children, Daneen and Robert Fauble of Florida and Duane and Julie Cotton of Allegan; five grandchildren, R.J., Josh, Steven, Sam, Stephanie and Tim Fishell; three great-grandchilden, Julieonna, Nickolas and Mackenzie; three brothers, Marion and Donna Cotton of Oscoda, Jim Pickering of Montana and Howard Pickering of Muskegon; two sisters, Nina and Jerry Hamilton of Muskegon and Retha Pickering of California; one brother-in-law, James and Theresa Harger of Twin Lakes; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Elmer was preceded in death by one sister, Rosetta; two brothers, Willie and Harvey; and one sister-in-law, Lynda. A celebration of his life will take place at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Duane Cotton's home, 1118 38th St. in Cheshire Township. Memorials may be made to Bill's family. Arrangements by Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel.