WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Marvin Charles “Chuck” Cottrill, age 87, of Three Rivers, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026 at Centrica Rose Arbor Place surrounded by his loving family.
He was born September 3, 1938 in Big Rapids, the son of Orville and Margarie (Youngs) Cottrill, and graduated from Niles High School with the Class of 1957.
Chuck served his country in the United States National Guard as a bow gunner.
On June 4, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Jane McNitt. They loved to dance and could jitterbug better than most people! They also enjoyed snowmobile rides with his siblings.
Chuck was in the grocery business his entire working life, with more than 25 years spent at Meijer from where he retired as produce manager in 2000.
Following his retirement, “Woodchucker” dedicated his life to fishing, with a break for deer hunting. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and enjoyed hosting friends for bonfires at his house. In his earlier years he raced snowmobiles in the summer, earning several trophies.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife, Shirley Cottrill; daughter, Connie Miracle (Scott); son, Marvin Cary Cottrill (Julie Doom); grandchildren, Bailey Miracle, Ashley Grant (Nate), Jennifer Lochotzki (Nick), Kristina Vance (Cody), and Donavon Cottrill; siblings, Fran Eitnear, Valerie Campbell, Pat Moody, Susie Baxter, Dale Danes, Josie Cottrill, Millie Cottrill, and Michael Cottrill.
He was preceded in death by his parents and by siblings, Orville Cottrill Jr., Robert Cottrill, Betty Wolven, Larry Cottrill and Jimmy Danes.
His family will receive friends Friday, January 30, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. A funeral service will follow at noon at the funeral home with Pastor Rich Saunders officiating. He will be laid to rest in Moorepark Cemetery at a later date. Friends are encouraged to wear camouflage.
