Ernest "Big Ernie" L. Cotter, 70 of Ash Grove, passed away Thursday, September 9, 2021, in his home. He was born on June 14, 1951, in Springfield, MO to Richard and Marguerite (Hambelton) Cotter. Ernie and Joan Collins were united in marriage December 4, 1970. To this union four children were born. Together they were privileged to share over forty-four years before Joan's passing in 2015.

Ernie lived in the Ash Grove area most of his life. He faithfully served in the United States Navy. Ernie loved to travel, work crossword puzzles, fishing, Fox News, and anything to do with aviation. He had been active in the American Legion and was the past Post Commander. Ernie loved his family, especially his grandchildren.

Ernie is survived by his loving family, daughter, Laura and husband Dan Davidson of Ash Grove; three sons Eric and wife Tammy Cotter, "Little" Ernie Cotter all of Ash Grove and Sam and wife Sarah Cotter, of Mt. Vernon; grandchildren, Alex Cotter, Logan Cotter, Wyatt Cotter, Annice Cotter, Kayla Cotter, Danielle Bach and husband Alec, Elizabeth Davidson, Hannah Davidson, Kyler Cotter, Karson Cotter, Kaleb Cotter; siblings, Debbie Warren, Pete Cotter and wife Debbie; step-mother, Mary Jo Cotter; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.

Ernie is preceded in death by his father, Richard Cotter; mother, Marguerite Roll; wife, Joan Cotter; sister, Margaret Watkins; and brother-in-law, Jack Warren.

Graveside services will be 2:00PM, Saturday, September 11, 2021, at Johns Chapel Cemetery, Ash Grove, MO.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given, in his memory, to the Ash Grove Food Pantry or Johns Chapel Cemetery and can be mailed to the funeral home, Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, PO BOX 217, Ash Grove, MO 65604.