Guy Cote

It is with great sadness that the family of Guy Cote announces his passing on September 26, 20025 at home with family and friends at his side.

With eternal love, we remember Guy Cote, a devoted husband, father, papa, great-grandfather, and friend. Guy passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and dedication that will forever be cherished by his family and community.

Guy’s career in quarter horse racing brought him national recognition, as he was ranked the #1 trainer in Canada by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). Through the Ketchemonia-Cote Stables, he broke numerous track records across Canada and the United States, many of which still stand today. In the 1990s, AQHA named Ketchemonia-Cote Stables the top racing stable in Canada, and Guy became known as a multiple stakes-winning trainer. His impact on the racing world will never be forgotten. Beyond the racetrack, Guy lived a life full of adventure. In his younger years, he played hockey with the Cote Selects and other teams, proudly wearing his iconic #22 jersey, earning trophies for best defense, and never backing down from a fight. He also excelled in fastball as a pitcher, known for throwing “junk” that led his team to tournament victories. A natural competitor, Guy also won trophies in pool and remained active throughout his life Lifting weights and punching the bag until he was 70 years old. From his home in Keeseekoose, he would bike, jog and even canoe to Kamsack numerous times. In his younger days, he built a horse race track that he would run on. Even at 71, he embraced adventure, parasailing, swimming in caves, zip lining through the jungles of Mexico and swimming with sharks.

Guy’s proudest accomplishment was his family. He was married to his devoted wife, Eunice, for over 45 years, and together they built a life full of love and resilience. Guy stated that being married to Eunice was his greatest event. He was a proud father to three daughters and one son: Alvin Friday, Farrah Sanderson (Mike Sanderson), Heather Ketchemonia (Justin Holloway), Brittney Ketchemonia (Ruger Lagan). He was lovingly called “Papa” by his nine grandchildren—Hailey, Precious, Harmony (Adam), Scarlett, Courage, Michael, Havana, Kaizer, and Ruger Jr. - and cherished the blessing of one great-granddaughter, Delilah.

A man of few words, Guy’s voice carried weight and respect. He was a loyal husband, a protective father, and a provider who worked tirelessly to give his family the best life possible despite humble beginnings. His work extended beyond family: he served as an elected councilor at Cote First Nation for 18 years, where he was voted number one many times. During his time in leadership, he led the charge for accountability and transparency. Before his time in leadership, he provided for his family by farming pigs, cattle, and chickens, while also driving a school bus during this time, for over 25 years. His commitment to both farming and bus driving reflected his steady work ethic and his devotion to supporting his family.

He cared for animals, feeding birds, squirrels, dogs, and cats, and had a special bond with his little dog, Leelu. He took great pride in his yard, keeping his lawn immaculate, and every year he honored the memory of loved ones by visiting cemeteries in Keeseekoose and Cote to clean and tend to the graves (29) of friends and family.

Guy was humble in every aspect of his life—whether in horse racing, hockey, his years of service on council, or his many accomplishments. He never tooted his own horn, yet those who knew him recognized a fierce competitor who gave his all in everything he did. Above all, he was a devoted provider and protector for his family. Guy will forever be a champion.

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