Obituary of William Vincent Elliott

William Vincent Elliott, 78, died at home in Shelton, CT on Wednesday, February 4, surrounded by his family. Born in West Roxbury, MA, he was the son of Dr. John and Marjorie (Stevens) Elliott.

He is survived by four children and 12 grandchildren; Michael and Cynthia Elliott, Caitlin, Vincent and Grace of Palm Coast, FL, Skip and Melissa E. Filanowski, Amanda, Michael, Abigail, Alexandra and Amelia of Shelton, CT, William V. Elliott, Jr. and William III and Eve of Norwell, MA and Rees and Marjorie E. Pinney and Cole and Emma of Hartford, CT. In addition he leaves behind a sister, Carolyn Elliott Bardetti of Weymouth, MA and a brother, John Elliott of Falmouth, MA, many nieces and nephews, his loving companion Mary Cahill and his most loyal friend and devoted dog, Jack.

Mr. Elliott served as a Sergeant in the Air Force during the Korean War. Following his service he began a career in the beverage industry working for companies such as Canada Dry, Mogen David, Schenley and Heublein. Recognized as Man of the Year by Advertising Age in 1982, he was widely regarded as one of the most creative minds in the industry and developed numerous marketing opportunities for products such as Smirnoff Vodka, Black Velvet, Yukon Jack and others. As founder and president of The W. V. Elliott Company, he created such notable brands as Schnapple and Rumple Minze Liqueurs. As a young man Mr. Elliott was an enthusiastic hunter. He pursued game birds around the U. S., Mexico and Kenya. In recent years he was often found boating on the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. He had a compelling interest in architecture and was a collector of art and antiques. Since moving to Connecticut in 1970, Mr. Elliott had been a resident of Farmington, Lyme, Essex and most recently, Deep River. A lover of the finest foods and wines, Mr. Elliott was happiest when entertaining and cooking for his family and his legion of friends from around the world and basking in the love of his grandchildren. 

There will be no public funeral services. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Vitas Innovative Hospice Care, 777 Commerce Drive, Fairfield, CT 06825.