Obituary of Allen M. Cotogno

Allen “Ace” Michael Cotogno, 54, passed away on August 10, 2013 after a courageous 10-year battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. When first diagnosed he was given less than a year to live, but in the true spirit of Ace, he fought long and hard without complaint and enjoyed every moment with his family, friends and coworkers. He is survived by his wife Rebecca and three children, Colin, Lacy and Lindsey and six grandchildren, Alexis, Desiree, Caeden, Macy, Owen and Alex. He is also survived by many members of his loving family including his mother, Shirley Cotogno, three brothers and their wives, Ronald, Kenneth and Catharine, Bruce and Dawn, their families, Rebecca’s family, and their cherished dachshund, Molly. Allen was preceded in death by his father, Victor Joseph Cotogno, a sister Bonnie Ann Cotogno, and beloved dachshund Mandy. Allen was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on November 8, 1958. He graduated from Chalmette High School in Chalmette Louisiana and LSU in Baton Rouge. For nearly 18 years Allen was the dedicated Director of Operations for Team Edition Apparel, Footlocker Corporation. In addition to his work, Allen loved cooking and enjoying all cuisines, watching football, especially LSU and the N.O. Saints, scuba diving, and riding his Harley. He was, along with his mother, a skilled mixologist. Allen cared deeply about everyone from his family and friends to his coworkers. He was a wonderfully generous and selfless man; always willing to help those in need. He will be loved and deeply missed by his immediate and extended family, friends and co-workers. A celebration of his life will take place at The Bridge Church, 4000 75th St. W, Bradenton, FL on Saturday, August 17, 2013 at 11:00am with Mark Alt officiating. Luncheon will follow. In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made to Trevor’s Cure Dat Foundation. Trevor, Allen's great nephew, who is three years old, was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) type 2. SMA is a progressively degenerative disease which eventually claims the lives of its victims. Trevor was dear to Allen's heart because he was the son of his goddaughter, Brittany. Donations can be made at any Chase Bank written to Trevor’s Cure Dat Foundation Inc. or visit www.gofundme.com/curedatsma Griffith-Cline Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.GriffithCline.com