AUBURN — Bertrand Paul Cote, 86, a lifelong resident of New Auburn, is now dancing in the loving arms of his wife and playing cribbage with family and friends, who have been waiting for him. Bert died Wednesday, Feb. 21, at Clover Manor.

He was born in Auburn on Dec. 14, 1931, a son of the late Alphonse and Albina (Prefontaine) Cote. He was educated in the Auburn school system. He went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a boiler man on the USS Buckley. Bert co-owned Cote Bros. Sewing Machine Shop for many years, in Auburn.

He married his one true love, the former Alyce Saltis, in October 1957; she predeceased him in January 2002. They settled on Third Street in New Auburn and raised their two children. He was a former member of St. Louis Church and was now attending Sacred Heart Church. Bert loved Off-Track Betting, fishing, gardening, golfing and bowling.

He is survived by his son, Stephen Cote, and his wife, Monique, of Lewiston; a daughter, Pat Wilkins, and husband, Dave, of Sabattus; a granddaughter, Tiffany Winiecki, and husband, Tim, of Illinois; two sisters, Marguerite St.Onge, of Lewiston, and Lucille Arel, of Lewiston; two brothers, Norman Cote, of Florida, and Leonard Cote and wife, Rachel, of Auburn; many nieces and nephews; and longtime friend and landlord, Fred. He was predeceased by his parents, and several brothers and sisters.

You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Bertrand’s life by visiting his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

Bertrand P. Cote