Obituary: Diane E. Hotchkiss, 88, Of West Haven

WEST HAVEN, CT — (From West Haven Funeral Home): Diane E. Hotchkiss, 88, a lifelong West Shore resident, entered into rest on December 18, 2022. She was the wife of the late George B. Hotchkiss Jr.

Diane leaves her children Deborah (Craig) Keller, Elizabeth (Richard) Pelletier, Kathleen (the late George) Card, George (Susan) Hotchkiss, and the late Paul Hotchkiss. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, her siblings Mary St. George, John and Marc Wade, and Sister-in-law Marilyn Hotchkiss Molloy. In addition to her husband and son, she was predeceased by siblings Robert Wade, Johanna Fluke, Eleanor Miller and brother-in-laws James Molloy and Richard Miller.

Along the beaches of West Shore, CT, Diane and her six siblings grew up happily at 471 Ocean Avenue surrounded by numerous friends - “The Gang.”

Diane met George Hotchkiss when they were kids and married in 1956. They raised their five children together at 5 Holcomb Street in a happy, very active, fun household. Over the years, they welcomed their friends and family into their home for dinners and picnics. They enjoyed weekend getaways by boating, fishing and fun on Long Island Sound, camping, and celebrating holidays with their family which included 26 first-generation nieces and nephews.

Diane was very adventurous. She traveled throughout Europe, across the United States, and among the Caribbean islands. She was extremely active in her community by being President of the PTA and a member of the Aimes Point Social Club. In these roles, she organized dances, dinners, and social activities for the community. She was one of the most animated and passionate fans at any rink when attending her boys’ hockey games. Diane was very competitive bridge player, an active and adventurous cook, a shy artist, and a very talented gardener. In retirement, Diane and George wintered at Seahorse Park in Saint Petersburg, Florida and summered at their Holcomb Street home in West Shore, CT. Over the years, Diane and George welcomed 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, only filling Holcomb Street with even more activity and happy memories. She retained her sharp humor and quick wit through her final days; her unique personality was appreciated by many throughout her life.

In Diane’s 88 years, she never resided more than a half-mile away from where she originally grew up; first in her childhood home at 471 Ocean Avenue, to 5 Holcomb Street, and then finally at 588 Ocean Avenue at Seacrest Assisted Living where she lived out her final happy months.

The family would like to express a sincere thanks to Seacrest Staff for the loving, fun, and personalized home they created for Diane. The family would also like to thank Constellation Hospice and Janice Thompson for their exceptional care. Finally, Diane was so fortunate to have the love and support of so many dear friends and family, thank you for always being there for our mother - she loved you all!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Constellation Hospice, 240 Indian River Rd., Orange, CT. 06477.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit West Haven Funeral Home here.