1928 – 2014

AUBURN — Noel R. Morrell, 85, of Lewiston, died Tuesday, March 4, at the Hospice House with his family at his side.

He was born in Waterville on Dec. 25, 1928, a son of Henry John Morrell and Susie Rich. He was educated in local schools  and graduated from Lewiston High School in 1948. Noel was a military veteran having served his country in the Marine Corps during the Korean War from 1948 until his honorable discharge in 1952 having attained the rank of Gunnery Sgt. During the Korean War, Noel was involved in the Chosin Reservoir Campaign and became one of the “Chosin Few,” enduring one of the harshest Winter marches in Military history. Following his discharge from active duty, he served 21 years in the Marine Corp Reserves from 1952 until 1973.

On July 1, 1967, Noel married the love of his life Elizabeth Gauvin and together they settled in Lewiston to raise their family. He first worked 35 years as a Printer at Bates Mill and later worked several years for the Androscoggin Sheriff’s Department  as a Corrections Officer until his retirement in 1993.

Among his favorite enjoyments were attending his grandchildrens’ sporting events, dancing, bowling, playing cards, traveling, and good times with family and friends. Noel was also an avid sports fan and greatly enjoyed following all the major  New England teams all season long. As a proud military veteran, he was a longtime and active member of the VFW and the American Legion.

He was a loving, devoted and hard-working husband, father and grandfather who will be dearly missed.

He leaves his wife of 46 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Morrell of Lewiston; a daughter, Maureen Withee and husband, Jason, of Turner; two grandchildren, Nicholas and Samantha Withee; several nieces and nephews; a cousin, Vincent Morrell of Newington, Conn.; and a lifelong friend and fellow serviceman Leo Dick of Auburn.

The family would like to thank the staff of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for their kindness and generosity.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolemces and fond memories with Noel’s family by visiting their online guestbook at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.