Joseph Ruwet Bunnell

Joseph Ruwet Bunnell (“Joe”), 35, of Morris died tragically on Monday while working on farm equipment. Joe was born in Torrington on January 30, 1985, the son of Helen (Ruwet) and Frederick Bunnell of Litchfield.

He grew up on the family farm in Litchfield and graduated from Litchfield High School in 2003. For the past several years he worked at Arethusa Farm. Joe had a big smile, infectious laugh, gave huge hugs, and leaves behind countless memories with his many family and friends. He was a stabilizing presence with his gentle, calming demeanor. Joe was selfless, always putting others before himself. Joe enjoyed the outdoors, whether spending time on Bantam Lake or working on the farms he loved. He loved sports and was an outstanding athlete. He played baseball for Litchfield High and more recently for the Tri-town Trojans. He also led the defensive unit for the Shepaug Co-op ice hockey team that made it to state finals in 2003.

Besides his parents he is survived by his longtime partner Brittany Houle with whom he lived in Morris; two brothers, Nicholas and his wife Sarah Lally of San Rafael, CA and Coleby of Litchfield; and a sister Kirby, of Litchfield. He also leaves his adoring niece Adeline and nephews Oliver and Ollie, several aunts, uncles and many cousins. He was predeceased by his grandparents Joseph and Virginia Ruwet, and Harold and Frances Bunnell and his dogs Troy, Holly and Hershey.

A celebration of life will be held outside on Saturday at the Bunnell Farm from 1-5 PM. Graveside service will be held on Wednesday at 12:00 Noon in St. Peters Cemetery, Torrington.  In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in honor of Joe for an award being established for a Litchfield High School Student.  Checks can be made payable to the Joseph Ruwet Bunnell Scholarship Fund. c/o Litchfield Bank Corp. 294 West St. Litchfield, CT 06759