WHITECOTTON Steven John Whitecotton, passed away at the U of A Hospital on December 19, 2008. He was born Dec 21, 1949 to William and Mary Whitecotton of Lacombe. Steve was diagnosed as a child with diabetes, but he worked hard never letting diabetes rule his life. In 1983 Steve endured serious injuries stemming from a work related accident, changing his life forever. His medical problems multiplied, leaving him unable to work. Steve never lost his sense of dignity; his love for family, gardening, and especially his pets. He wanted to travel, and always dreamed of going to the Yukon, to see where his Grandfather had been a gold miner. That dream came true, twice. Two years ago Steven received the most precious gift of all, a kidney, from his sister Cathy. It seemed that whatever life threw at him, he was a survivor, having endured many health problems that would have brought down the healthiest person. One of his latest, greatest achievements was being able to walk in the Kidney Foundation walk in September. It wasn't a marathon, but walking the entire distance and crossing that finish line with a big grin on his face, he showed us all his inconceivable determination. He is survived by his wife Susan, two daughters Angela and Jacen Bellingham of Athabasca, and Stephanie and Rob Dobson of Lacombe Alberta. The reason for his strength and the incredible will to live, his two granddaughters, Shae and Chloe. He also leaves to cherish his memory two brothers, Larry and Marty (Laurie), six sisters, Louise (Elmer) Langlois, Sue (David) Ferguson, Myrna (Bill) Bruns, Cathy Whitecotton (Bob Bolin), Julie (Jack) Brown and Laurie (Albert) Stol; and one brother in law, John Wills. He also has many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and cousins. At Steve's request there will be no funeral but there will be a celebration of his life and incredible strength on February 7th, 2009 at the Morningside Hall, 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers Steven requested donations to be made to Canadian Diabetes Association, or the Kidney Foundation. The family would like to thank all of our wonderful friends for making Steve's life incredibly rewarding. A special thanks to Dr. Swartz for compassion and the knowledge to always do the best for Steve.