Larry D Cottam

Captain Larry D. Cottam

Kenora Fire and Emergency Services, ON

Captain Larry Cottam died from a work-related illness on April 3, 2023. 

He joined the fire service in 1985.

Larry started his career as a live-in volunteer for the Kenora Fire Hall.  He quickly developed a passion for firefighting and community service, and the firefighters that he worked with became his second family. Larry retired in 2020 after 34 years, but the friendships he made lasted a lifetime.

Larry’s dedication to the community came through in his many volunteer roles - KBI, LOW Amateur Radio Society, LOW Search and Rescue, KPFFA Local Executive, coaching sports, or creating the neighborhood skating rink. Safety and education were his passion, and he was always looking for ways to better the community. The camp in Sioux Narrows was his “happy place”, and he enjoyed anything outdoors - fishing, hiking, or sitting on his dock with a Bud Light.

Even during his difficult battle with pancreatic cancer, he maintained a brave face and was still looking for ways to make others’ lives easier - a true testament to his selflessness.

Larry was a wonderful husband and father, and will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 36 years. His children will hold his memory close, sharing stories of his accomplishments and embracing his values as their own.