ROCHELLE — Bertrand “Bert” John Coté, 102, passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at his home in Rochelle, Illinois.  Bert was born on September 8, 1921, the son of Philippe and Alma (Routhier) Coté in Lyster Station, Quebec, Canada.  He proudly served with the United States Army, 2nd Armored Division, famously known as “Hell on Wheels”, during World War II. 

Bert was a plumber for Local 23 Pipefitters and Plumbers and was in charge of running the warehouse at the Byron Nuclear Plant for many years.  He loved music and when he played his harmonica, it was as if you could hear the entire orchestra playing. 

Bert is survived by his daughter Jeannine Harms of Rochelle; five grandchildren: Christy (Mark) McGowan of Rockford, Andrew Harms of Rochelle, Heather Harms of Rochelle, Josh Coté and Amanda Coté and three great grandchildren: Audrey Sullivan, Darby McGowan and Brennden Harms. 

In addition to his parents, Bert is preceded in death by both of his wives, Mary Ellen (Rucker) and Lorraine (Kehm); son, Mark Joseph Coté; great grandson, Carter McGowan; nine brothers: Antonio, Henri, Robert, Raoul, Alcide, Roger, Jean Louis, Jules “Luke” and baby Emile Coté and seven sisters: Rita McNichols, Mary Anthenat, Alda Farnham, Margaret Walters, Bertha Tarkenton, Monique Coté and Jeannine Rioux.

The visitation will be from 10:00 - 11:00 A.M., Monday, July 15, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 236 Kelley Drive, Rochelle. The service will follow at 11:00, Monday with Father Jesus Dominguez officiating.  Burial is at St. Patrick Cemetery in Rochelle with military services provided by the Eastern Lee-Ogle Honor Guard and the active Army Honor Guard.  Memorials may be made in Bert’s memory to V.F.W. Post 3878.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.