Ethel Van Arx

Ethel Van Arx (Henninger), passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025 surrounded by family. Ethel was born in Waterbury, CT March 5, 1941.

She was the daughter of the late Eleanor and Lyman Burke of Watertown CT. Ethel grew up in Watertown and was a graduate of Watertown High and attended Post University.

Ethel is predeceased by her husband Peter Van Arx of Watertown. The two were married in March of 1962 after which they raised their two daughters in Woodbury CT.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, camping, raising oxen, and working with the local Girl Scouts, she also worked for many years at Friendly's in Watertown, Southbury and New Milford. Ethel loved knitting and crocheting, often making blankets for nursing homes, hats for babies and hats/mittens/scarves for the homeless. She was a long-time member of the Woodbury Senior Center and an active member of the New Milford Senior Center when she moved to Gaylordsville with her daughter and son-in-law in 2021.

Ethel leaves behind two daughters, Dana Smith (Vinnie Brutz) of Gaylordsville and Donna Sesko of Conshohocken PA, four grandchildren, Jessica Quinty (Donald), Justine Sesko, Arline Rice (Michael) and Thomas Sesko (Meghan Minehan), 5 great grandchildren, Douglas, Jillian, Zachary, Oliver and Lydia, her sister Jennie Atkins (Charlie) of Ashford, her niece Erica (William) Baker of Ashford and their 3 children. Ethel is also predeceased by her son in law Thomas Sesko and great grandson Adam.

A private service will be held for family and close friends in the spring.

Memorial Donations can be made to: Animal Welfare Society, 8 Dodd Rd., New Milford, CT 06776

Munson Lovetere Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements. To leave an online condolence please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com