Charles N Botka, Sr.

Charles Norbert Botka Sr, 93, born on September 6th, 1930, of Botka Drive in Charlestown, passed away from a broken heart after losing the love of his life, Alwilda “Allie” Botka, with whom he shared 70 years of marriage. Allie passed on October 26th, 2023, and Charles followed just 24 days later, peacefully surrounded by his devoted son, Charles Norbert Botka Jr., his wife Sheila, and grandchildren Rebecca Hutton and Tim Botka Sr, along with his caregiver, Sashalee, on the evening of November 19th, 2023, at his home on Pasquiset Pond.

Charles, born to his loving parents Norbert Charles Botka and his loving mother Lydia Katrina Wilkenning Botka. Charles was born and raised in the original farmhouse on Botka Drive and remained there to build and raise his own family for many generations to come.

Charles, a loving and generous man, ensured his children had property surrounding him on Botka Drive. He spent his entire life on this farm. Charles and Allie, upon marriage, built their new home together, hand-digging the foundation on Pasquiset Pond. They raised their three children, Charles, Debra, and Sandra, in this home they built and remained there until their passing.

Charles cherished pond life, enjoying moments with friends, saunas, swimming, and the company of loved ones.

Passionate about gardening, he took pride in the tomatoes he grew and relished daily walks to his son’s home or the garage, where they both kept construction equipment. As Charles Sr. aged, his son provided a golf cart, and later a motorized scooter, ensuring their inseparable bond remained strong.

Employed most of his life with the New England Carpenters Union Local 94, Charles spent his retirement winters in Naples, Florida, with his wife, enjoying beaches, long walks, dining out, and their shared love of the Opera and art shows.

A lover of seafood, especially oysters and blue crabs. An avid bowler and shuffleboard player, Charles and Allie loved to travel, embarking on numerous cruises to various destinations.

Active in Charlestown committees, Charles served on the Planning Board from January 1973 to 1982, elected to Planning from November 1982 to 1988, served on the Charlestown School Building Committee in 1974, joined the committee to study the feasibility of building a middle school in 1979, served on the Land Use Committee in 1980, and was appointed to the Salt Pond Region Special Management Plan Advisory Group in 1985.

Charles and Alwilda had dedicated caregivers at home over the years, and they express gratitude to Gloria, Melissa, Mandi, Susan, Cindy, and Sashalee for their invaluable assistance.

Survived by his son Charles Botka Jr. and wife Sheila of Charlestown, daughter Deborah Williams of Florida, and daughter Sandra McMinn of Tennessee, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A burial service is planned for the spring of 2024, where both parents will be laid to rest amidst the singing birds, shining sun, and blooming flowers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Hospice, 143 Main Street, Wakefield, RI.