Galen A. Rockwell

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Galen A. Rockwell “Rocky” (77) on May 28, 2025. Galen was born in Caribou on March 17,1948 to Warren and Josephine (Doody) Rockwell. He graduated in 1966 from Caribou High School and received his Bachelors degree in Accounting from Bentley College in 1970. Shortly thereafter, he became a Certified Public Accountant. He was also a past member of the Caribou Assembly of God.

Galen began his professional career as a staff accountant. He later made the move to commercial banking where he served in various roles. In 1991, he and his wife Arlene decided the time was right to open his own CPA practice in their home in Caribou. Galen specialized in consulting and truly enjoyed assisting with tax planning, preparation and helping aspiring entrepreneurs reach their dreams of business ownership. It was in this capacity as a small business owner, that Galen discovered his passion for public service. He served on the Caribou City Council for six years, one of which as Mayor. In addition, he contributed his time and financial expertise to several area boards and committees. The two organizations he held close to his heart were the Central Aroostook Association, which serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and the Caribou Rotary Club, which is a fellowship of business professionals and community members that work together to promote integrity, goodwill and provide service to others.

A Rotarian for over 35 years, Galen lived his life by their core philosophy of “Service Above Self”. He embodied the ideal of putting the needs of others before one’s own. His loyalty to Rotary was evident through consistent attendance, active participation, and his commitment to successful ticket sales for the Annual Draw events. He served as club president in 1989, and in 1997 was incredibly humbled to become a Paul Harris Fellow. This recognition acknowledges a substantial contribution to Rotary’s efforts in supporting humanitarian and educational programs.

Galen’s love and dedication to his community was rivaled only by that for his family. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, Arlene (Sparks) Rockwell, two daughters, Jennifer Quinlan of Caribou, and Karen (Josh) Ouellette of Caribou, and three grandchildren; Alaina Quinlan, Claire Ouellette, and Colby Ouellette (his best buddy). Galen is also survived by three siblings; Barbara Gallagher and her husband Ron of Limestone, Keith Rockwell and his wife Paula of Northport, Florida, and Debra Burnham and her husband Melvin of Skowhegan, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Warren and Josephine, as well as his youngest brother, Joe Rockwell.

A family man in the truest sense of the term, Galen was happiest when his family was gathered together. Nothing meant more to him than his role as “Papa”. Trips to the park, running out for donuts, a walk to the corner store for treats and the dollar bills that always seemed to get slipped into the grandkid’s pockets, are memories that will be forever cherished.

Per Galen’s wishes there will be no funeral. A private graveside service will be held on June 7th. For those wishing to make a contribution in Galen’s memory, we ask donations be sent to the Caribou Rotary Club, PO BOX 1073, Caribou, ME 04736.