Olivia Joyce Cottrell LeVan died peacefully at Greenwich Woods on Friday, July 18, 2014. She was born on October 14, 1923, in Brighton, England, to Thomas Cottrell and Liliane (Essling) Cottrell. Her father was a prominent British cartoonist who drew for a number of weekly magazines including Punch and Blighty, and was a press cartoonist for the Beaverbook group of papers. "Wit's Krieg," compilation of his WWII work, is in the collection of the Imperial War Museum in London.
Olivia was raised in Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex. In May 1941, she joined the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) of the British Army. Upon completing training, she was sent to Dorchester Barracks where she was a switchboard operator. She was then sent to Bovington Camp, the tank headquarters of General Montgomery, and then on to Weymouth Barracks to be trained as a plotter, learning how to plot shipping and aircraft on a large plotting table and passing the information along to the gunners. When plotters were needed for aircraft operations, she was transferred to the RAF base at Middle Wallop. It was here that she was on duty in the in the operations room in the early morning hours of June 6, 1944. On that historic day she plotted the movement of the D-Day forces crossing the English Channel.
During the war, she met Arthur LeVan, an American soldier, on a blind date in London. They married in July 1945. She came to the U.S. as a War Bride on the Queen Mary and lived in Nazareth, PA, Arthur's home town. She became a U.S. citizen in November 1953. Arthur worked for Dixie Cup (American Can) and was transferred to their new Greenwich headquarters in 1971.
Olivia worked in Greenwich for over 20 years as an executive secretary at various companies including Timex, Heminway & Bartlett, Greenwich Academy (Headmaster's secretary), Greenwich Hospital, American Optical Corporation, and for Amb. Joseph Verner Reed.
She enjoyed the Greenwich harbor ferry boat rides, vacationing in Bermuda, her cat Simon, listening to her daughter sing, gardening, and writing. She wrote a memoir (unpublished) of growing up in England, her war experiences, and the often difficult adjustment to living in the U.S as a war bride.
She is survived by her daughter, Denise LeVan, of Stamford; her stepsister, Sally Thorpe, of Hailsham, E. Sussex, U.K., and stepbrother, Robin Cottrell, of London, U.K. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Arthur.
The family would like to thank Masonicare Hospice Care and Greenwich Woods for the loving care given to Olivia.
Arrangements are being made by Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, 2900 Summer St., Stamford, CT. Service will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Masonicare Hospice Care, CT Chapter of Alzheimer's Association, or Friends of Felines, Stamford.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Denise LeVan.
September 4, 2014
I feel privileged to have known Olivia. She was a very caring and generous person. She loved talking about her daughter and her kitty Simon. I enjoyed her company and I enjoyed the time I spent with her. May she rest in peace.
With loving memories,
Teri Cassone
August 19, 2014
Denise~ A month has passed since we heard the news of your mom's death; once again, our condolences on your loss both to you and to your extended family. Olivia was truly a special, classy woman; and she loved you unconditionally. We were glad to know that in the end you were by her side in her final moments and that Olivia passed away peacefully. Understandably you feel a void; the bond between a parent and child, and most especially a mother, is so intertwined in our DNA, but time heals the sorrow, and memories of a life well spent prevail. We remember her holiday cards, sharing theater outings, music and so much more and it was our honor to have known her and enjoyed her company through the years.
Sending love and prayers that you only remember the more joyous times
Love, Jodi and David
August 9, 2014
Mary Jane Newman
Dear Denise:
I'm grateful to have known your mother. She was a woman of great dignity. I pray that her memory continues for blessing and goodness for you and all who loved her.
August 4, 2014
John & Justine Macurdy
Dear Denise: We are truly sorry to learn of your Mothers passing she will be missed. I know that we always asked about her health and condition and that she had a peaceful and untroubled moment with you by her side and is now filling in family and friends about you and felt that her time had come to be with them.
August 3, 2014
Margaret Dubuque
Denise, I'm very sorry to learn of your mother's passing.
When I sold my mother's condo in 1996, little did I expect to find a friend. The new owner was a gracious and beautiful lady...your mother, Olivia, of course.
I remember when she first invited me to tea...how lovely. Then the arrival of Simon, so cautious and shy. And of course our occasional lunches and visits.
I always loved her habit of signing her cards and notes with a little drawing of Simon.
Thank you, Denise, for letting me know. May God bless and comfort you.
August 2, 2014
Denise ~
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most sorrowful time. Olivia was a lovely lady and a great neighbor here in Putnam Green. I will miss her and the Christmas cards from "Olivia & Simon"
Ellin Wortmann
Greenwich
July 30, 2014
Bea Crumbine
Denise, Peter and I send our condolences and remember your stories about your mother's life and career. We are sorry for your loss but know that your memories of the times you shared will give you strength.
Fondly,
Bea and Peter Crumbine
July 28, 2014
Viki Boyko
Your mom must have been so proud of you, Denise and you must have been proud of her and her contribution to history as a member of the ATS. How interesting to read about her history. It is a blessing that she passed away peacefully with you by her side.
July 28, 2014
Denise, I remember your mother as a beautiful woman, who moved with grace and dignity. She was what used to be called a lady, with a warm smile yet a reserved manner. You were as loving as any daughter could be, and made the last years of her life as comfortable as possible. She loved you dearly, even more than Simon! You were the joy in her life. May the comfort of the Lord be with you as you grieve a wonderful mother, and may many memories of times past fill your heart. My prayers are with you. Joan Osgood
July 28, 2014
Janet & Peter Esposito
We think of Olivia as a kind, dignified lady and loving mother of our dear friend. What a wonderful history she had. Thanks, Denise, for sharing it with us.
July 27, 2014
Karen Juul
Denise,
Just learned of your Mom's passing. While it's always difficult to lose a parent, at least she's at peace. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family at this difficult time.
Karen and Bob
July 25, 2014
Claudia Bouchard
Denise, my memory of your Mom is that she liked getting hugs and liked most of all chocolates.She loved and cared for Simon like a family member. I remember how she enjoyed shopping through catalogues and finding nice things.Denise she was proud of you, a supportive and loyal daughter. May she rest in peace.
July 24, 2014
Bob & Bonnie Caie
Dear Denise, My memory of your Mom is all wrapped up in the cherished relationship you had with her. What a delight to read the obituary as I had no idea of her past which was quite illustrious! May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand as you grieve this loss.
July 24, 2014
Denise, we are very sorry for your loss. Although we did not really know your mother, we know she leaves behind a very caring daughter.
Joyce and Jay
July 23, 2014
Denise,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Olivia was such a lady and I will always remember her spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. What a caring daughter you were! Take comfort in that. Sincerely, Mary Bolger
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