Obituary of Arthur Ernest Bothwell

Arthur Ernest Bothwell (Ernie) passed away peacefully at his home on April 19, 2022. In testament to a life well-lived, he recently celebrated his 88th birthday on March 18. His big smile, firm handshake, content spirit, and strong work ethic will be remembered by all, especially Jean, his beloved wife of 62 years. His memory will live on through their loving children, Leslie, Karen, Ernest, and their partners Greg, Nick, and Liz.

He adored his grandchildren, Emily, Celine, Christina (Dante), Caroline, Cameron, Quinten, Alex, Travis, and his great-granddaughter Hadley, who were the light of his life. To them, he was their "Poppy," who had a twinkle in his eye, the biggest heart, and a fierce sweet tooth. His siblings Ruth, Cecil, Gerald, Edwin, Wilfred, sisters-in-law Frances, Kyra, Lillian, Ethel, Audrey, Margaret, and several caring nieces and nephews have years of colorful stories about a man who was larger than life. He is predeceased by his parents, Maud and Robert, his sister Iris, brothers Reginald, Louis, Herbert, Victor, sisters-in-law Anna and Angela, and brothers-in-law William and Hubertus.

In 1959, shortly after arriving from Ireland, he acquired and continued to build Darien Asphalt Paving. His integrity and entrepreneurial spirit led him to a successful 50 year career in the construction industry.

Poppy cherished his time at his peaceful cabin on Great Sacandaga Lake with family and friends from every walk of life. The cabin guest book tells tales of Poppy’s sunset boat rides, bonfires, and big breakfasts which captured the hearts of all those who visited Camp Bigenuf.

He is known around town as a humble and generous man through his support of local charities, lifelong friendships, and a knack for storytelling.

The legacy of Ernie will be held in the hearts and minds of the many lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at the chapel at Noroton Presbyterian Church in Darien, CT on Saturday, April 30 at 11 a.m..

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Friends of Nambale https://friendsofnambale.org or checks made payable to Darien Human Services, Darien Town Hall, 2 Renshaw Rd, Darien CT 06820. Please indicate on the check that the gifts are in memory of A. Ernest Bothwell.