Puttachad "Lek" Ariyapitipun

Puttachad “Lek” Ariyapitipun, age 58 of Cheshire, entered into rest on January 29, 2026 at her home with her loving husband by her side. She was the devoted wife of John O’Brien for over 16 years. Lek was born on October 26, 1967 in Bang Saphan, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand, daughter of Mongkol Ariyapitipun and the late Jittra (Lim) Ariyapitipun.

Lek began her journey in Thailand, where she graduated from Bangkok University and started her career in the publishing field. She later moved to the United States to further her studies in art, a path that took her through the Art Institute of Boston for her degree and later to Savannah College of Art and Design for her Master’s. After completing her graduate studies, she returned to Thailand to work for Art for All, a foundation dedicated to helping children with disabilities experience and express themselves through art. She eventually returned to the U.S. to marry her husband, John.

She didn't just study art, though—she lived it. Whether she was painting, sculpting, or drawing, she always had a project in motion. She was just as likely to be found behind a camera as she was sitting quietly with her sewing or crochet work. Throughout her life, she was known for her quiet generosity, always looking for ways to donate to and support those less fortunate.

Together, she and John shared a love for travel and saw much of the world. Lek took great care in the planning of their trips, making sure every detail was set, whether they were trekking through Thailand or driving throughout the U.S. and Canada. Wherever they traveled, she was happiest exploring local museums and libraries. She also loved the ocean and made regular trips, regardless of the weather or the season.

In addition to her husband, John of Cheshire and her father, Mongkol of Bangkok, Thailand, she is survived by her loving siblings, Dr. Sumon Veruttipong of La Crescenta, CA, Ms. Nattpon Ariyapitipun, Mrs. Suchada Ariyapitipun, Dr. Surapon Ariyapitipun, Dr. Tipayanate Ariyapitipun, Mrs. Pontip Ariyapitipun and Ms. Naruemol Ariyapitipun, all of Thailand.

Friends may greet Puttachad’s family at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 So. Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410 on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4PM until 6PM. Burial will be private and at the convenience of her family. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Friends of the Cheshire Public Library. To leave online condolences for her family, please visit www.fordfh.com.