Gilford Bothwell died peacefully February 16, 2026 at home in Canyon Lake next to his wife Dolores.

Gil was born on April 4, 1930, in Woodbridge, New Jersey, to Alexander and Agnes Bothwell. The youngest of six children, he graduated from Woodbridge High School two years before Dolores, though the two had not yet met. Their story began when Dolores, then a junior, hosted a party and needed more boys to balance the group. A friend invited Gil, and that simple introduction began a lifelong partnership.

In those early days, Gil owned only a Cushman motor scooter, so many of their dates consisted of bus rides to the movies followed by long walks home for Gil after he dropped Dolores off. Dolores later recalled that he was often late picking her up because he was working on his cars. He seemed to arrive in a different one nearly every time, leaving neighbors convinced she must be seeing multiple suitors.

Gil first worked as a house and industrial painter. When the Korean War began, he attempted to enlist in the Navy but was turned down. Determined to serve, he enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed for a year at Carswell Air Force Base in Texas. During that time, Dolores faithfully wrote to him nearly every day. When he came home on leave in 1951, they were married. Gil continued his Air Force service in Texas, working as a mechanic on B-36 aircraft. After his 4 years of service they returned to Avenel, NJ, and built their first home. Shortly after they welcomed their three children: Laurie, Gil, and Steve.

Gil went to work for Eastern Airlines as a mechanic before becoming a Flight Engineer. In 1960 he took a job with the Brazilian company, Varig Airlines where he continued to work for 33 years, starting at JFK Airport in New York. After jobs became scarce Gil was transferred to California where the Bothwells settled in Torrance and raised their family. Gil traveled all over the world assisting with aircraft sales for work while Dolores became a secretary at Casimir Middle School as their children grew up and attended school.

Before retiring, Gil and Dolores purchased a lot in Canyon Lake and built their home there, moving permanently in 1993. Gil and Dolores became active members of Canyon Lake Community Church, and Gil generously volunteered his time to help church members with home projects. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking projects and golfing.

Over their 74 years of marriage, Gil and Dolores built a life filled with love, family, and faith. They were blessed with three children, seven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren who brought them endless joy.

Gil will be remembered for his relentless drive, his devotion to his family, and his deep faith in God.