Stephen Richard Cotarelo age 16 went to be with The Lord on Friday October 9, 2015 while at his home in the Chase Community. He was born March 18, 1999 in Mecklenburg County and has been raised in Rutherford County. He is the son of Steve and Tammy Bailey Cotarelo and is the brother of Mary Ann Johnson, Amanda Cotarelo and Izzy Oliver, and uncle of Kailyn Johnson, Cayson Jackson, and Gavin Oliver. He is also survived by grandparents: Richard and Jenny Cotarelo, Joanne Bailey and Fred Bailey as well as a number of aunts, uncles and other family members. Stephen was the best son, best friend, best brother, best uncle and a very funny and loving person. An academically gifted student, Stephen attended Chase High School, where he played bass clarinet in the marching band. He would refer to the other band members as “family” and not just friends.A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held 11 AM Saturday October 17, 2015 at Cornerstone Fellowship 1186 Hudlow Road Forest City, NC with Pastor Mike Snelgrove officiating. Following the service he will be laid to rest in Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery in the Chase Community. The family will receive friends from 4 PM until 7 PM Friday October 16, 2015 at Crowe’s Mortuary in Rutherfordton, NC. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Chase High School Marching Band. “Stephen you will be greatly missed, our hearts break for you. The way you touched our lives and the joy you brought us and everyone around you will stay in our hearts forever. Your smile would light up a room and even the night. We will all cherish and miss your jokes and quick wittiness. Our son, rest in peace.” Remember God loves us all. Please pray for us during the tough times ahead.