Bernadine M. Cotten

Bernadine Mae Cotten of Pleasant Hill, Iowa passed away Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the age of 94.

She was born in Warren County, Iowa February 15, 1932. She graduated from Indianola High School in 1950. Bernadine worked for Simpson UMC, the VA Medical Center and Prairie Meadows.

Her faith was a guiding force in her life and she loved her church, Simpson UMC, and the relationships that she fostered there. She was the church secretary for 16 years. Bernadine was a puppeteer and through this talent, she was able to get many of the youth involved in church activities. She was also a clown and a member of the Cornpatch Clowns. Bernadine loved going to Table Rock Lake and tubing. She was also an avid puzzler.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Cotten. Bernadine is survived by her children, Jeri Ramirez (Mike), Denise Bush (John), Rex Cotten (Mel), four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, at Simpson United Methodist Church, 2600 E Capitol Avenue (corner of E 26th & Capitol), Des Moines. There will be a time for fellowship and refreshments following the service until 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Simpson UMC or Suncrest Hospice.

The family would like to thank Story Point staff and Suncrest Hospice staff for the care and compassion they showed our mom in her final days.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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