Susan E. Cote

Susan E. Cote, of Portland, Maine, passed away unexpectedly on August 28, 2018.  Susan was born on November 23, 1956 in Newton, MA to her parents Paul S. and Rachael M. (Michaud) Cote. Susan was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Bruce S. Cote.  Susan is survived by her brother, Michael P. and Shirley (Owens) Cote of Bath; her sister, Cynthia M. (Peter) Howe of Holly Ridge NC; her sister, Lisa R. Cote of Tampa Fl; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Susan was a graduate of the 1975 class of Needham High School in MA and received her Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene from the Forsythe School of Dental Hygiene in 1977. Susan continued her education and earned her Master’s Degree in Dental Public Health from Boston University School of Dental Medicine in 1999. 

Susan was a Program Coordinator for the Sadie and Harry Davis Foundation, and initiated the program, From The First Tooth, an oral health initiative to integrate oral health into pediatric medical practices throughout the state of Maine. Susan was published and presented both nationally and internationally on her work in dental health research and program coordination. She also worked with several social service agencies throughout the state of Maine.  She was previously employed by Boston University of Dental Medicine, Department of Health Policy and Health Services Research in Boston, MA as a Clinical Instructor and Researcher.  She had worked with refugees in a clinic and her publication drew the interest of then first lady, Laura Bush, who acknowledged and complimented her publication to the program office at the NIDCR at the National Institute for Health.

Susan was a loving and caring person who volunteered her time to several organizations for the advancement of oral health. Those organizations included Partners For Rural Health in the Dominican Republic, Project Hope in Bali, The Lost Boys of Sudan, and several more. Susan was happiest when helping less advantaged people and will be remembered for her caring compassionate soul.

Susan also enjoyed traveling, gardening, laughing, and spending time with her dear family and friends. She was famous for establishing new traditions and bringing joy to those around her.

In lieu of flowers, Susan requested that donations be made to the March of Dimes of Maine (www.marchofdimes.org), International Rescue Committee of Boston, MA (www.rescue.org), and/or Project Hope of Washington D.C. (www.projecthope.org).

Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 PM on Friday, September 14, 2018 at A.T. Hutchins Funeral Home, 660 Brighton Ave., Portland.  A funeral mass will take place at 10:30 AM on Saturday, September 15, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 673 Stevens Ave., Portland.

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