Oak Lawn Man Killed In Work Accident, GoFundMe Set Up For Family

OAK LAWN, IL — An Oak Lawn man died in a work accident last Saturday morning. Brian Cotter, 47, a masonry worker, was part of a crew that was tuck pointing an elementary school in Waukegan when he fell 35 feet down a chimney shaft, Lake County authorities told the Chicago Tribune.

Cotter was transported to Vista Medical Center in East Waukegan, where he was pronounced dead of multiple blunt force injuries, officials said.

A family member has set up a GoFundMe campaign for Cotter’s wife and two young children. Cotter was the sole source of support for his family.

“The world lost an incredible father, husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to many …” Brandon Cotter said. “To those who knew Brian, he was one of the hardest working and caring people you would ever meet. He regularly worked 70-80 hours per week in order to provide for his family. He would always drop whatever he was doing to help his friends and family.”

Over $39,000 has been raised toward a fundraising goal of $75,000. To make a donation, or to offer words of encouragement, visit Memorial Fund for Brian Cotter's Wife and Children.

“While absolutely nothing can be done to mend the emotional toll his passing will create for his family, we are hoping that any financial donation you may be willing to make will help ease some of the burden with the significant expenses and life changes that the family will have to incur.”