Charles Cotman

Charles Calvin Cotman was born on November 13th, 1941 to Marguerite and Louis Cotman, in Detroit, Michigan. Charles attended old 5t. Mary's Roman Catholic Elementary School in Greektown. He was Baptized and Confirmed at Old St. Mary's
Church. He remained a devout Catholic throughout his life. He
graduated from the University of Detroit High School in 1959
and from the University of Detroit in 1953. He also earned a
Master's Degree in history from Marquette University.

Charles was a scholar of history, serving as a University of
Detroit professor during the 1970's. He was held in high regard
by students and colleagues alike. He was an effective teacher.
He also worked in the Michigan legislature as Administrative
Assistant to the late Senator Jackie Vaughn, IIl. He concluded
his career as a Historian in the State of Michigan Historical
Division, with responsibility for historical markers, including
Old St. Mary's and Sacred Heart Catholic churches and the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Charles will be remembered for his wry wit and his large
stamp collection, in addition to his love of opera and classical
music.

Charles departed life on December 27th, 2012, in Lansing,
Michigan. He is survived by devoted relatives and friends: his
brother, Dr. lvan Louis Cotman (Jeanetta), nephews: lvan
Louis, Jr. (LaVonda), Arthur Robert (Rene), Amir Charles
(Cassandra), three great nephews and two great nieces; close
friend and confidant, Marie Henry; life-long friend and
classmate, Tolbert Small, M.D., in addition to a host of former
students and admirers.