Bruce Bell

WATERFORD – Bruce F. Bell, 63 of Waterford, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2016, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He died peacefully at his home on McWain Pond surrounded by his loving family.

Bruce was born Oct. 29, 1952, the first son of Frank and Frances Bell. He grew up in Bridgton, graduating from Lake Region High School in 1971.

Bruce retired in 2010 after a 37-year career with Central Maine Power Company Meter Department, working in both Bridgton and Lewiston offices.

Bruce married his beloved wife, Debbie Smith in Harrison on Oct. 19, 1985, and together they shared 30 wonderful years.

He was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Heather Lee and Jennifer Lynn; as well as two amazing grandchildren, Brenna Madison and Camden Ryan. His family was his pride and joy.

“Boo Boo” will be remembered for always making others laugh up until the very end, and his willingness to always lend a hand to help someone out.

Bruce loved the outdoors including traveling, playing sports, hunting, fishing, and would often have a cigar going “to keep the bugs away.” He loved anything sports-related, especially the Red Sox, Patriots, and Notre Dame football.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie of Waterford; two daughters and their spouses, Heather and Sean Miller of Kennebunk, and Jennifer and Matthew Vermette of Wells; two grandchildren, Brenna and Camden Miller; two brothers, Cliff and his wife, Diane of Windham, and Ron and his wife, Terry of Naples; and two sisters, Susan Gratto and her husband, Chris of Portland, and Brenda Tobin and her husband, Tim of Bridgton. He is also loved and will be missed by many nieces, nephews, and the entire Smith family.

The family would like to thank Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Bridgton Hospital, and Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for their wonderful support during this difficult time.

Visiting hours will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, Aug. 26, at Oxford Hills Funeral Services, 1037 Main Street, Oxford. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday at Elm Vale Cemetery in Waterford with Pastor Tim Knowles officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284, or to Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, 15 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston, ME 04240. Condolences can be expressed to the family by visiting www.oxfordhillsfuneralservices.com