Obituary of Emma Coltrin

Emma Cottle Coltrin, 87, passed away Monday, May 15, 2023 in Marana Arizona. Emma was born on August 12, 1935 in Trenton Utah to Merlin and Veda Cottle. She married Gene Stephen Coltrin on July 2, 1953. They were married 66 years until Gene’s passing. Together they raised two sons and two daughters. Emma spent her life devoted to her family, community, and church.

 

Emma Coltrin was a talented pianist and organist.  From her teen years into her 80s she spent many hours playing for church services and choirs. She served in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints all her life. She  worked in the Primary, Young Women and Relief Society organizations.  She was in many presidencies, sometimes as the president.  Together Emma and Gene served in the Temple Presidency of the St George Temple.  She was the Assistant to the Matron.

 

When she was 41 years old, Emma received a degree in Education from the University of Arizona. She taught elementary school for 20 years.  4^th grade was her favorite. 

 

Emma Coltrin’s most important role was that of mother and grandmother.  She was gentle and kind.  She expected her children to excel and gave them the necessary support to succeed.  She got up early and stayed late.  She made sure that Saturdays were family time.  She packed a picnic, gathered her family and headed to the mountains.  Those family outings were the highlight of the week.  The family fished, read books, played cards, and ate red licorice.

 

Emma Cottle Coltrin is survived by her siblings: Marba Thompson of Hurricane Utah, Lyle (Lynne) Cottle of Ogden Utah, Wayne (Geri) Cottle of Lindon Utah, Adele (Terry) Russell of Waddell Arizona, and Brent (Joyce) Cottle from Elsinore Utah  and her children: Stephen (Wendy) Coltrin of Marana Arizona, Susan (Stan) Vaterlaus of Tucson Arizona, Lyn (Ernie) Hale of Oakley Idaho,and David (Rebecca) Coltrin of Mapleton Utah; and 17 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren.

 

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 20th at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sumter Building, 3500 W Sumter Dr, Tucson Arizona 85741. The viewing will be from 9:00  - 10:30 am and the funeral service will begin at 11:00 am. A graveside service will be held Monday May 22 at 9:00 am at the Binghampton Cemetery, 4001 N Alvernon Way, Tucson Arizona 85718. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Adair Funeral Home.  Our family expresses thanks to all the care givers and friends who visited Emma, and brightened her life with their caring love. 

 

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