RUMFORD — Bessie S. Ettl, 71, of Hanover, died Wednesday, April 13, at the Rumford Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Rumford, Sept. 8, 1939, a daughter of Leroy and Helen (Damon) Stearns. She graduated from Stephens High School in Rumford.

Bessie was a member of the Bomberettes Bowling League and the Ladies Aid of the Rumford Point Congregational Church. She was a great cook and enjoyed painting, knitting, reading and was always game to do something at the drop of a hat. Bessie loved traveling with her husband, especially their trips to Germany.

She was married in Rumford Point on Oct.11, 1969 to Frank Ettl, who survives of Hanover. Other survivors include a brother, Warren D. Stearns and wife, Marcia, of Hanover; sisters, Barbara Gross and husband, Malcolm, of Hanover and Brenda Grady and husband, Quentin, of Concord, Calif.; brother-in-law, Joseph J. Ettl and wife, Betty, of Uncasville, Conn.; many nieces and nephews; and a very special niece and best buddy, Brenda Gross and her family of Hanover.

Friends are invited to sign the family guest book and share their thoughts, condolences and memories online at www.meaderandson.com.