Obituary of Elizabeth "Betty" Hotchkiss

Elizabeth “Betty” (Hauser) Hotchkiss, 104, of East Haven passed away June 3, 2022 at home surrounded by her family. She was born August 10, 1917 in New Haven, CT to Joseph and Marie (Andersen) Hauser. Betty is survived by her two loving daughters, Pam Moran of Falmouth, MA and Debbie Callan (Michael) of Hamden along with four grandchildren, Ryan Moran (Paula), Sarah Callan, Jaime Listro (Jon) and Shannon LeNoir (Dan). She is also survived by her four great grandchildren, Slade Moran, Lucien Moran, Genesis Moran and Landon Listro, a sister, Elinor Crowe of Branford, a brother, Donald Hauser (Ginny) of Clinton and numerous nieces/nephews. Elizabeth is preceded in death by her parents, husband Edward “Ted” Hotchkiss (2017) and siblings, Christine Corey, Joseph Hauser, Helen Cretella, Rita Fraser, Richard Hauser and Arthur Hauser. Betty grew up in New Haven and graduated from Commercial High School. In her early years, she worked in the offices of Berger Bros. garment factory. During these years her love for music brought her to clubs in New Haven where she sang, accompanied by her brother Dick. She then worked at Happy Fenton’s restaurant in Momauguin, East Haven, where she met the love of her life, Ted Hotchkiss. They married in 1950 while Ted was in the air force and enjoyed 67 years of marriage together. The military life brought them to other parts of the country and ignited an interest in travel that continued through their life together. Settling in East Haven, Betty stayed home to lovingly raise her two daughters. This is where her passion for gardening exploded and her yard was filled with fabulous flower gardens where birds and squirrels were encouraged to come. Betty was devoted to her family and was able to enjoy many years of precious time with them. Betty drew people in and always made them feel at home and part of her family. She embraced any occasion for a gathering or a party. Friends and family would travel near and far to be with her; especially for her 100th birthday bash! Betty would gladly tell you that she had a great life! It was her passion for life and her immense love for the people in her life that helped her overcome any challenge that came her way. She always kept a positive attitude and was willing to go through whatever it took to be able to make it to the next wedding, meet the next great-grandchild, watch her beloved Red Sox, or dip her toes in the ocean each summer. It was her kindness, loving nature, generosity, and ability to always see the good in people or situation that makes her an inspiration to so many. Betty showed us how to live our best life and we will forever be grateful for her. The family would like to express gratitude to all of her healthcare professionals and hospice staff. A special thanks to Donna Belcher, family friend whose loving care allowed her to remain in her home. The family would also like to acknowledge all of her wonderful neighbors for their kindness and love shown to Betty throughout the years. Family will receive friends from 4 to 7 P.M. on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 in the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave. ,East Haven. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 8 at 11 A.M. in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 80 Taylor Ave., East Haven with Committal to follow at All Saints Cemetery in North Haven. Masks are optional.