COTTAM, John of Malden, passed away on December 8, 2011 after six months of declining health. Loving father of Laurie Hillson and her husband, Bob of Andover, MA and John (Jack) Cottam of Saugus, MA and David Cottam and his wife Sonya of Saugus, MA. Cherished grandfather of Maria and Nikki Cottam and Robbie, Chloe, Connor Hillson and grandaughter on the way. Born in Brighton, MA in 1937 to parents Charlie and Ann Cottam, John was one of seven children who grew up in Malden, MA. Dear brother of Jean, Claire, Charlie, Paul, Bobby and David. After graduating from Malden High school in 1956 John entered the Army into the 101st Airborn Division (Screaming Eagles) and was stationed in Europe. After leaving the Army John became a Melrose Fire Fighter (Engine 3) on July 24, 1967 and served the city of Melrose for thirty years. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Memorial Mass at St. Mary's Parish, 44 Myrtle Street, Melrose, MA on Thursday. December 15, 2011 at 9:00 AM.