John Gardner Bozarth, 97, of Bristol, and recently of Barrington, and Rockport, Mass., died on Thursday, Sept. 18.

Born Feb. 6, 1917 in Springfield, Mass., he was the son of the late Harvey and Almira (Larabee) Bozarth. He was the brother of the late Ruth Bozarth and husband of the late M. Mirsa (George) Bozarth.

A graduate of The Technical High School of Springfield, Mass., he served in WWII as a Naval Aviator in the Pacific Theater. He was a sculptor his entire life, self-taught until his 30s when he graduated from Rhode Island School of Design, where he taught from 1954 to 1985, and was named Professor Emeritus.

Mr. Bozarth was known for his humility. He was an exceptional artist and person. An early feminist, he held women in the highest regard. John had the ability to keep his sense of humor throughout his long life.

When he wasn't sculpting or teaching he kept busy volunteering, gardening and baking bread. He enjoyed the company of animals, especially cats and dogs.

A liberal in his thinking, his art and his politics, he lived his day-to-day life conservatively and simply. If he saw a need, he gave. If something needed repair, he fixed it. If he saw litter on the ground, he picked it up.

A good citizen of the planet, he left this world a better place than he found it.

He was a wonderful father to daughter Rebecca M. Bozarth of Watsonville, Calif., son Peter G. Bozarth of Bristol, son Nathaniel J. Bozarth of Crescent, OK, daughter Amy G. Shaw and son-in-law Kenneth G. Shaw of Barrington.

A Celebration of Mr. Bozarth's life will be held in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Silver Creek Activities Fund, 7 Creek Lane, Bristol, RI 02809.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Sansone Funeral Home For online condolences, shared memories go to www.sansonefuneralhome.com.