Rudy G. Bell

BLAINE - Rudy G. Bell, 58, passed away peacefully at home Feb. 28, 2014, with family and friends by his side after a battle with brain cancer.

Rudy loved his family and was an amazing husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He took care of everyone and could bring calm in the middle of chaos. He was a teacher and mentor always being patient when you didn't quite understand. He loved the outdoors whether fishing, hunting, camping, kayaking or just sitting by the fire. He was also an active member of the Mars Hill Fire Department. Rudy was a great farmer and mechanic. He spent his career on the farm working first with the Adelmans and then with the McCrum family, with them having said he was the best asset in the business. He truly was an inventor being able to build or repair anything. Although he was proud of his accomplishments, he was humble and never boastful. He loved his work family as much as his own family.

He is survived by his wife and soul mate, Barbara Bell; and his children, Corey Bell of Yarmouth, Karen Boyd of Hampden, Jordan Bell of Biddeford, Kaley Benner of Madison, and Nicole Benner of Bangor. He was predeceased by his son, Randy Bell. He loved being with his three grandchildren and enjoyed watching them grow. He was predeceased by his parents, Ransford and Phyllis Bell; and his brother, Robert Bell. He is survived by his sisters, Judy Roach of Brockville, Ontario, Linda Gustafson of Florida, and Brenda Mullen of Indiana; and his favorite sister-in-law, Paulette Bell of Bridgewater. He and Bernard Stickney were like brothers even before becoming in-laws (or was it out-laws?). Jake Crouse was also a special friend with many fond memories of hunting trips and "the bus."

A man with the kindest of hearts and compassion, he left an impression on everyone he came in contact with. He truly was an unforgettable man.

Join us in celebrating his life 2 p.m. Friday, March 7, at United Baptist Church, 20 Church St., Mars Hill. At his request in lieu of flowers, please make donations to Patient AirLift Services, 120 Adams Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735; or C-A-N-C-E-R, P.O. Box 811, Presque Isle, ME 04769. Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at www.duncan-graves.com.

This obituary was originally published in the BDN Maine.