BOTTO, GEORGE EVANS

BOTTO, GEORGE EVANS, died peacefully at his home in Wildwood Crest with his family by his side, on Saturday, 29 March, 2014. Born in Conshohocken, and formerly of Highland Park, PA. George was the son of the late John V. and Mary Elizabeth (Evans) Botto. He was a standout swimmer at LaSalle College High School in Philadelphia and graduated in 1948. He continued swimming at LaSalle College, graduating in 1952. Shortly after graduation, Mr. Botto was drafted into the US Army for service during The Korean Conflict. Sgt. Botto was present for the Battle of Pork Chop Hill where he was wounded while carrying an injured fellow soldier to safety. For his actions, Sgt. Botto was awarded the Bronze Star for valor and the Purple Heart. In 2000, he was recognized and thanked for his service by The Republic of South Korea. Following his discharge, Mr. Botto married his college sweetheart, Jean (nee McDevitt). Mr. & Mrs. Botto were married 54 years at the time of her death in 2010. Mr. Botto was employed by The Philadelphia Electric Company where he was active in the Rotary Club of Chester, PA. A Fourth Degree member of The Knights of Columbus Council 3132, in Upper Darby, PA, Mr. Botto was a devout Catholic and a man of great faith. One of the highlights of his life was when he got the chance to travel to Rome for an audience with The Pope. Along with his wife, George was also predeceased by his sisters Mary E. Gambescia, RN, Catherine Burt, Frances Ann Quinn, RN, Margaret Hughes and his brother John V. Botto Jr.. Mr. Botto is survived by his 2 children, Mary Ellen Lopizzo (Edward J. Sr.) of Wildwood Crest, NJ and George C. of Key Largo, FL. He will be dearly missed by grandchildren Caroline K., Valerie K., and Samuel Evans Botto and Anthony J (Hope) and Edward J Lopizzo, Jr. all of Wildwood Crest, sisters-in-law Dolores (Zolko) Botto and Frances (McDevitt) Scully, brother-in-law John Burt, 52 nieces and nephews, over 100 great nieces and nephews and his devoted “Posse” of Wildwood High School athletes of whom he will be eternally proud. A viewing will be held at Notre Dame de la Mer Parish, Assumption Church, 7100 Seaview Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ on Thursday, April 3, from 9-10:50 AM followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his honor be made to The Bernie McCracken Scholarship Fund c/o 120 E. Miami Ave. Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260. Online condolences www.donohuefuneralhome.com