1931-2003

LEWISTON – Germaine “Gerry” DeGruttla of Lewiston passed away peacefully in her Cote Street home on June 7.

Born Nov. 12, 1931, she was the daughter of John and Lillian DeGruttla. She was educated locally and worked in the public sector throughout the duration of her professional career. Prior to her retirement, she served the City of Lewiston as a social welfare worker, assisting the needy and underserved. During her tenure, she also served as the president of the Lewiston Municipal Association and as the chief steward for the Maine State Employees Association Local 5, City of Lewiston.

A politically active Democrat, she was recognized in Who’s Who In American Politics. She served the party in several capacities. She was a member of the State Democratic Committee for three terms; chairperson of the Androscoggin County Democrats for two terms as well as treasurer for two terms; and chairperson of the Androscoggin Women Democrats for four terms. She served as the Maine chairperson to several state and local fundraising events including receptions for former President Jimmy Carter and Rosalind Carter and Senator John Glenn.

Germaine “Dukee” was a member of the local Emblem Club serving two terms as president as well as holding various officer positions. She served on many committees; especially those representing charity efforts ensuring that the needs of others were cared for. She also was initiated as a woman Elk of the local lodge.

Throughout her life, she impacted the lives of so many in the Lewiston Auburn community. She will be remembered as a dedicated mother and grandmother, a loyal friend and a compassionate, giving and unique woman, whose love and spirit will never fade. There are no words to express how deeply she will be missed.

She is survived by two daughters, Dr. Lynn Bak of Yarmouth and Lisa Ptak, Lisa’s husband Michael and two wonderful grandsons, Colby and Cameron Dufour of Lewiston. She also leaves six sisters: Carmella Cote, Angelina Boisvert and Gloria McCarthy of Lewiston; Lucille Delorme of National City, Calif.; Annette Metropolis of West Hartford, Conn.; and Theresa Hunsicker of Santa Ana, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews and dear long-time friends along with her buddies Sam, Bear and Juliette.