WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – Joseph Richard Normand Cote, 92, of Winter Haven, Fla. passed away peacefully on July 5, 2021 surrounded by his family. Norm was born in Auburn, Maine on Oct. 15, 1928 to Alphonse and Albina Cote. Norm served in the Korean War as a member of the United States Air Force. Upon his return from the war he worked for Bill’s Photo of Auburn. Norm then worked for Theberge Sewing Machine of Auburn where he learned the machinist trade. He founded Cote Brothers with his brother Paul and ran a very successful business servicing the needs of the shoe industry. Upon retirement he sold the business to his daughter and son in law Lisa and Ron Blake.

Norm was married for 61 years to the late Monita Cote and together they raised four children. He was actively involved as a member of St Louis Parish in Auburn serving as the cantor for the music ministry for many years. Along with Monita he hosted the bingo fundraiser games at St Louis Parish for many years.

Norm also enjoyed playing golf and took great pride in teaching his four children the nuances of the game. His calm demeanor and great patience were perfect for this wonderful experience.

Another passion of Norm’s was his love of singing karaoke at the VFW in Melbourne, Fla. Norm was known for having a wonderful voice and a singing style reminiscent of Frank Sinatra. Along with singing at the VFW, Norm loved dancing with his wife Monita and what wonderful dancers they were.

Norm is survived by his son Rick Cote and wife Sue of Hallowell, daughters Lisa Blake and husband, Ron of Turner, Gina Roberge and husband, Mike of Haines City, Fla., and Diana Sargent of Lewiston; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and sisters Lucille Arel of Lisbon, and Marguerite St.Onge of Lewiston.

Norm was predeceased by his parents; his brothers Roger, Paul, Leonard, Yvan and Bert and sisters Fernande Bissonette, Betty Cody and Florence Hooper.

There will be a private service for the immediate family at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Lewiston.

Donations in Norm’s honor may be made to the:

Hallowell Food Pantry at http://www.hallowellfoodpantry.org.

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