Arthur H. Bishel II

Arthur Henry Bishel II, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2023. Born on September 9, 1933, to Sherman and Dorothy Bishel in Middletown, he attended local schools graduating from Woodrow Wilson in 1952. He was drafted and served in the Army stationed in Japan. Art worked for more than 50 years at The Smith & Bishel Co.; the family hardware store founded by his grandfather Arthur H. Bishel. Art married Elizabeth (Betty) Roberts in 1954, moving to Colchester and raising their family there.

He was a member of the Masons for more than 57 years, belonging to Wooster #10 in Colchester and Ornan #117 in Florida. He enjoyed farming and gardening, camping, hiking, square dancing, sailing and steam boating.

Art is survived by his children and their spouses:

Scott (Lynn), Keith (Lisa), Lloyd, Lori (Stephen). His grandchildren: Kristen, Patrick, Jacquelyn, Sarah, Stephen, Elizabeth, Rachel and Danielle. And his great-grandchildren: Kylan, Talia and Lucas. He is also survived by his sister-inlaw Elaine, daughter-in-law Ellen and several nieces and nephews and his wife Patricia.

He was predeceased by his wife Betty, daughter Holly, grandchildren Philip and Matthew, brother Robert and sister Betsy.

Calling hours will be on January 27th from 10am to 11am at the Westchester Congregational Church, 449 Westchester Rd., Colchester. A masonic service and celebration of life will follow at 11am at the church. Burial will be at the Westchester Cemetery. Refreshments will be served back at the Church Hall.