I am forwarding this notice of Charles (Chuck) Cottril’s passing sent to me by Marta Gillen, Sr. Executive Assistant to the DVC President.
I got to know Chuck through the DVC Retirees Association. Kind, generous, sharing, a wonderful part of our community. He continued to support students by donating his beautifully crafted wood pieces to our Silent Auctions, pieces winners of the auctions displayed with pride for the art they are. Chuck will be missed.
Nancy Zink
DVCRA Liaison
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Dear DVC Community,
We are saddened to report the passing of former full time biology faculty Charles Cottril. His family has shared the following obituary:
Charles Loren Cottril (affectionately known as Chuck) passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, August 11, 2025. He was a friend to many, a devoted father and grandfather, and a passionate educator.
Born in Fairview, Kansas, Charles graduated from Fairview High School, earned an undergraduate degree from Emporia State Teachers College with a BS in Education, a major in Biology, a master’s in biology, and AP credentials from the University of Oregon. Chuck was a sports enthusiast and lettered in high school football, basketball, and track. Chuck began his teaching career at Concord High School, in Concord, CA, and spent the following 33 years as a professor of biology at Diablo Valley College (DVC) where he served as the Division Chairperson for Biological and Health Sciences. He retired in 2001.
Chuck enjoyed road trips, camping, and family gatherings and could often be found in his workshop that he built with his children; crafting furniture and cabinetry and mastering his skills at wood turning, making every day items to ornate bowls and vessels.
Charles is preceded in death by wife Joy Cottril (2017) and survived by former wife Eileen Owen, and their children Tim Cottril (Laura) of Walnut Creek, Tracy Brotze (Matthew) of Alameda, Tom Cottril of Antioch, and grandchildren Charlie and Nicholas Cottril of Walnut Creek, and Cooper and Turner Brotze of Alameda.
Charles enjoyed friendly conversations with everyone and will be missed by all who knew him. A private celebration of life will be held for family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made to the Diablo Valley College Foundation with ‘Biology Fund’ in the memo. 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.