William ‘Bill’ Bottone, devoted pet owner

William “Bill” Bottone, 80, died Friday, Nov. 3, at a Lewes-area nursing home after a long illness. Born in the New York City area where he spent his formative years, Mr. Bottone later resided in Los Angeles, Martha’s Vineyard, Arlington, Va., and ultimately, Lewes. He attended Georgetown University where he was a familiar presence on the McDonough basketball courts, according to his friend, Dr. Tom Walsh.

Forty years ago, Mr. Bottone moved to Lewes, where he was an integral part of the King’s Inn, a bed & breakfast owned by the late Patricia Pope Rocket, greeting guests, giving tours of the historic house, and offering tips on where to dine and visit in Lewes.

He was affectionately known around town as “Bill the Painter,” with his ladder strapped to a big, old white station wagon, and he was always available to help neighbors with yard work and household repairs. He was quite a raconteur and entertained guests at the King’s Inn with the local lore.

Every morning for many years, Mr. Bottone would jog to Cape Henlopen State Park where he would “converse” with the four-legged inhabitants and beachcombers. Throughout his life, he was a devoted pet owner of several dogs and cats.

Mr. Bottone will be missed by all who loved and cared for him. He is survived by special friends, Barb and Tom Rew, Kathi Carpenter and Dr. Tom Walsh.

An entombment service will take place at 12 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25, at St. Peter’s Cemetery on Pilottown Road, Lewes.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes.