NEW HAVEN — George Henry Bell, age 94, of New Haven, passed away peacefully at home on April 8, 2021, following a diagnosis of cancer, surrounded by his loving family. 
George was born in Green River, Vt., on Dec. 13, 1926, son to Bertha (Knight) Gates and his stepfather Carl E. Gates. George was raised in Addison County, living in Bridport and Middlebury. As a child, he was involved in 4-H and the Future Farmers of America, winning several awards for his immaculate care of his cows. Following high school, he worked on the Middlebury College Farm. George met his wife Betty (Rivers) Bell at the Rutland roller rink, marrying on July 4, 1950. After marrying he worked as a herdsman at Beaver Brook Farm in Wilmington, Vt. and Rosewall Farm in New Hampshire.
After moving home to Addison County, George worked operating bulldozers, driving school buses, moving pianos, and then worked for ten years in the mines in Mineville, N.Y., and for over twenty years at Standard Register. After retiring in 1989 he kept busy by mowing the lawns of local businesses, town offices, and homes with his wife. Always on the move, George kept mowing until the fall of 2020, evidence of his tireless work ethic.
All who knew George speak of his gentle spirit, resilience, and focus on family. He was passionate about cars, whether it was a long drive or spending countless hours fixing up vehicles in his garage. George also enjoyed collecting watches and clocks, and listening to country-western music.
George was predeceased by his sister Eleanora Potter of Indiana and brother Henry Gates of Brattleboro, Vt.
George is survived by his wife of 70 years, Betty Bell; his son, George A. Bell (Judy) of Missouri; his daughter, Patricia Covillon (David) of Vermont; three grandchildren, George A. Bell II (Sherry) of Missouri, Aaron Gingras (Kate Steward) of Vermont and Laine Gingras (Sean McGowan) of New Hampshire; three great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. George is also survived by his sister, Eva Lewis of Albany, N.Y., nephew Fred Lewis, nieces Marsha Westfall and Freda Johnson, and many other nieces and nephews.
The family will be holding a private graveside ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but if you would like to share memories or condolences, cards can be sent to 89 North Street, New Haven, VT 05472.◊