Bert L. Cottle, former mayor of Valdez, passed away early October 19th, 2022. Cottle was a lifelong Alaskan who was born and raised in Wasilla. He graduated from Wasilla High School and Trinidad State College in Trinidad, Colorado. Cottle served as a police officer in Valdez for 22 years, and for 10 years as Valdez mayor. He also worked for 13 years with the Alaska Gasline Port Authority.
The City of Valdez reported Cottle began as a patrolman and moved up the ranks, being promoted to sergeant and acting chief until finally serving as police chief for the seven years before his retirement.
Cottle continued to reside in Valdez for many years and was an active member of the community. In 2000, Cottle returned to public service as mayor, a position he held until 2010. In 2011, Cottle moved to Wasilla to accept the deputy administrator position for the City of Wasilla. Cottle later went on to serve as mayor of Wasilla.
Cottle’s career of service includes three years on the Alaska Alcohol Beverage Control Board; three years on the Alaska Municipal League Board (past president); and three years on the Alaska State Homeland Security Task Force. Cottle’s affiliations include: Pioneers of Alaska (past president); Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks #2537; Eagles Aerie #1971; longtime NRA member; Advocate for Victims of Violence; FBI Association; Youth Coalition Task Force; and, Wasilla Area Seniors.
Valdez City Clerk Sheri Pierce who worked with Cottle for several years, shared, “Bert always reminded me how much he loved Valdez. To say he cared deeply about our community is an understatement.”
In honor and respect for the numerous contributions Bert Cottle has made to the City of Valdez, the city manager ordered the flying of the United States flag at half-staff beginning October 19 until sunset on October 21st.
George Rauscher will be working with the legislature to get a memorial citation signed by the legislature when it convenes this January.