HAMPDEN – Germaine M. Bell, 73, of Hampden, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 19, 2021 at EMMC due to complications of cancer.

She was born in Waterville to Jeannette and Louis Rodrigue (both predeceased). She graduated Skowhegan High School in 1967 and went on to earn several college degrees (UMO, UMF, and UMA- receiving honors in Art).

In December 1981 she married R. Nicholas Bell.

Surviving is their daughter Leeann Bell (partner, Scott StPeter); grandson (“the favorite”, the joy of her life, I could go on and on because she adored him so, “D” as only she could call him) Darius Rancourt; her sister and best friend, M. Theresa Henderson (husband Walter) and brothers Francis Rodrigue (wife Gloria), David Rodrigue, Paul Rodrigue and predeceased brother, Roger Rodrigue. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews; as well as great-nieces and nephews; lifelong friend, Russ Seebeck and many other great friends all of whom she holds close to her heart.

She was a member of the Methodist church (Fairfield Center and Pleasant Street). In her true generous spirit she enjoyed volunteering at the PSUMC, Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen, Evening Sandwich Program and the Waterville Homeless Shelter. She was a member of Waterville Elks Lodge 905 with good friend Pete Brown for several years.

She loved spending time with family and friends, going for scenic drives, gardening, drawing (extraordinarily talented), biking, hiking, photography, and loved viewing pics of those she cherished.

After moving north to be closer to her daughter and grandson she really developed a passion and talent for the game of cribbage. She was an active member of the American Cribbage Congress and of local club 361-The Penoboscot Peggers.

She loved all animals. She had two kitties: Precious and Glitter and our shared dog, Mattie. Those furry babies had her wrapped around their paws. She was fierce, brave, smart, funny, companionate, giving and so very loving. She took on the role of mom and Grammy and brought it to the next level! Always only a call or text away. Darius and Gram shared something special and her love will always live on through him.

An outdoor Celebration of Life will be held at Cascade Park in Bangor on Saturday Oct. 9 at 1 p.m. All family and friends are welcome to join us in celebrating my Mom!

Donations can be made (at celebration or via Lee) to benefit a local youth cribbage program.