Wm. “Paul” Cottrell, lovingly known as Paul, passed away on October 16, 2024, at the age of 72. Paul was born and raised in Pennsgrove, NJ, by his parents, Arvil Earl Cottrell Jr. and Guðbjörg (Guðmundsdóttir) Cottrell.

Paul’s story is filled with passion, humor, and dedication. He met his wife, Carolyn Pokoyski, on March 8, 1969, at a Salesianum battle of the bands—a fateful night that led to the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary this year.

Paul’s academic journey began at the University of Delaware, where he graduated summa cum laude in 1975, studying political science under the mentorship of Professor Jim Soles, who influenced his decision to pursue law. He then attended The University of Chicago Law School, graduating in 1978. His career as a litigator began in the windy city, where he thrived, representing architects and engineers, professions that became his lifelong passion. He fondly referred to this period as the "10 winters in Chicago." Though they loved the city, the cold and family eventually drew them back to the East Coast.

After settling in Wilmington, Paul went on to co-found the law firm Tighe & Cottrell, P.A. He specialized in representing design professionals, a field he cherished for its intellectual challenges and the creative problem-solvers he worked with. His practice spanned the Mid-Atlantic, with admissions to the bars of Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.

Despite his success, Paul remained humble and grounded, often reflecting on the twists and turns of life with his trademark sense of humor. He frequently quoted Kurt Vonnegut, saying, "Please forgive me, for I am but the victim of a series of accidents, as are we all." In his semi-retirement, he enjoyed playing "Judge Wapner" as an arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association, a role he took on for decades.

Although Paul was deeply committed to his work, his greatest joy came from his family. He was immensely proud of his children, Jonathan and Elizabeth. The birth of his twin grandchildren Oskar and Hazel in 2021 was the icing on the cake of Paul’s life.

He is survived by his beloved wife: Carolyn, his son: Jonathan, his daughter: Elizabeth Zelley (Scott), and his grandchildren: Oskar and Hazel Zelley. He also leaves behind his brother: Earl Cottrell, his sisters-in-law: Christine Kelly and Lorrie Cooper and their families.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 1 PM at The Carriage House at Rockwood Park, 4671 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, DE 19809 followed by a reception.

Paul’s legacy of love, laughter, and a career marked by integrity will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul’s name may be made to the Ministry of Caring at ministryofcaring.org.