Robert L. Botti, 70, of Chester and Portland

CHESTER >> Robert Louis Botti, 70, of Chester, passed away on March 3, 2013 after a valiant battle with Acute Monocytic Leukemia. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Barbara (Dagle) Botti; his son, Michael R. Botti; daughter, Carole (Botti) Sibiskie and her husband Michael, and his cherished granddaughters, Caryn and Caitlyn.

Bob was born October 31, 1942 in Middletown to the late Giovanni and Esther (Scotti) Botti. “Bobby” was the youngest of 7 children. He grew up working on the family farm and at Paddock Farm where he developed a strong work ethic at a very young age. In his teens, he and his brother, Tommy began working after school at Portland Electric, the appliance business his oldest brother, Rocco founded after returning from WWII. Bob later became president of the company and was in his 60th year of working at the business known for its loyal customers, quality products and service. He was also an avid outdoorsman who loved nature, whether cutting wood, canoeing or hunting with his buddies. Bob also played lots of sports in his younger years and won many local championships in softball, football, basketball, and volleyball. He played on great teams with great guys and was a tenacious and aggressive player. Bob loved the water, boating, and his home on the river. He was very proud of his beautiful garden and sharing the rewards with family and friends. He also traveled extensively with his wife, Barbara and a group of lifelong friends affectionately known as “The Gang”. One of his favorite trips was a visit to Albenza, the little village in Northern Italy where his parents and four siblings were born.

He is also survived by his brother, John Botti and his wife, Josephine; his brotherin-law, William Schneck and sister-in-law, June Botti as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Along with his parents, he was pre-deceased by brothers, Rocco and Tommy and sisters, Caroline Grassi, Yolanda Wysocki, and Gloria Schneck.

There will not be traditional calling hours or funeral services. However, there will be a “Celebration of His Life” for family and friends on Thursday, March 7 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Saint Clements Castle, 1931 Portland-Cobalt Road, Portland.

In lieu of flowers, please go out to dinner or spend some quality time with your loved ones. If you are able, please donate blood to the Red Cross or send a donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 300 Research Parkway, Suite 310, Meriden, CT 06450 in memory of Robert L. Botti.

Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown is handling the arrangements. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.