Doris Jean Cottrell
Doris Jean (née Miskoe) Cottrell, age 91, of Chardon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2025, at Lake West Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, compassion and service to others.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on Dec. 12, 1933, Doris was the beloved daughter of Vlad and Wilma (née Habodsz) Miskoe.
She pursued her passion for education at Kent State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education. Doris devoted over 30 years to teaching in the Euclid Public School system, touching countless young lives with her dedication and gentle guidance before retiring in 1993.
In 1985, Doris moved to Chardon, where she quickly became a vibrant and beloved member of the community. She was an active participant in the Geauga and Ohio Retired Teachers Associations, the Burlington Oval Book Club and several breakfast and luncheon groups—always bringing friendship, laughter and thoughtful conversation wherever she went.
Doris had a generous heart and a steadfast commitment to helping others. She was involved with the Hillcrest Hospital Breast Cancer Support Group, offering encouragement and compassion to those facing difficult journeys.
She was also a passionate advocate for individuals with special needs and served with CASA of Geauga County, dedicating time and care to supporting abused and neglected children in the court system.
A lover of adventure and learning, Doris was an avid traveler. Her journeys took her across the globe, from the wilds of Africa on safari to the cultural riches of Cambodia, Thailand, Greece, Israel and Mexico. She embraced each experience with joy, curiosity and an open heart.
Doris is survived by her loving granddaughter, Jennifer Lynn (Brennen) Whiteside, of Bloomingdale, Ill.; her great-grandchildren, Logan Hodge, Jaireon Whiteside and Hope-Marie Whiteside; and a wide circle of dear friends whose lives were brightened by her kindness, humor and wisdom.
She was preceded in death by her beloved first husband, Richard “Dick” Nordman; and second, Clyde K. Cottrell; and dear friend, Richard “Dick” Koch; her cherished daughter, Nancy N. Hefner; and her brother, James Miskoe.
The family suggests donations be made to Hillcrest Hospital Breast Cancer Group, checks payable to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, P.O. Box 931517, Cleveland, OH 44193. Please add in memo In Memory of Doris Cottrell; and/or Kent State University, Education Department, 350 S. Lincoln Street, P.O. Box 5190, Kent, OH 44242.
A Celebratory Gathering of her life will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. A private burial will be held at Whitehaven Memorial Park in Mayfield, Ohio.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
Doris lived with grace, gave with her whole heart and left the world a better place. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.
