Maxine Lowell

Maxine Lowell (nee Gellman), of Houston, Texas (formerly of Madison), loving mother, wife, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, universal mother to many and friend to all, passed away on July 9, 2014 at the age of 81, in her home.

Maxine was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI and is the older sibling of two children. She went to Washington High School in Milwaukee, married her sweetheart Ben Lowell, moved to Madison and raised six children. She could be described as a "hopeless romantic" as she nearly celebrated her 60th wedding anniversary with her husband Ben, prior to him passing in 2009. She worked for a period of time at Central Colony in Madison and then worked with her husband for many years, driving him from appointment to appointment keeping him company during his business trips and also discovering new and unique restaurants in Wisconsin. Later she worked with the family as they started the Ben Lowell Insurance Agency in Houston, Texas. The agency was a family business, one where she enjoyed working with clients and family members on a daily basis. The business grew to become a thriving agency in Texas serving all types of clients from individuals to businesses and even foreign embassies.

One thing that can be said about Maxine is that she knew her priorities. Family always came first with her as there is nothing that she would not have done for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. In fact, if you wanted to see her light up, all you had to do is watch one of her grandchildren or great grandchildren walk into her room. Of course, not far behind were her friendships, both long time ones and the ones that were more recent. Many people would describe her household as a small United Nations as she made every effort to make everyone feel welcome in her home.

After suffering a stroke more than two years ago, and battling other health issues, Maxine rallied from her challenges and lived a good life never complaining, always keeping a positive attitude and revealing an inner strength and beauty that is truly admired by loved ones and friends that knew her.

Maxine had a few hobbies which included playing cards, getting her nails and hair done and visiting with friends and family.

Maxine was reunited with her parents Solly and Edythe Gellman, her husband Ben, and her grandson Max, all of whom preceded her in death.

She is survived by her children Deby (Brett) Dalrymple, Houston TX; Diane (Ramiz) Tafilaj, Houston TX; Scott Lowell (Gerel Kreijin), Houston TX; Jeff (Heather) Lowell, Minneapolis MN; Bill (Jan) Lowell, Eagle WI and Doug (Laura) Lowell, Houston TX. Proud and loving Grandmother of Besa (David) Pinchotti, Besim (Iliriana) Tafilaj, Durim (Yllka) Tafilaj, Jessica (Gene) Labrada, Derek Lowell, Jake (Katy) Lowell, Rachel (Jorge) Almanza, Alexandra Lowell, Ariana Lowell, Mason Lowell and Arabella Lowell. Great Grandmother to Lira Pinchotti, Zana Pinchotti, Drin Tafilaj, Vera Tafilaj, Dia Tafilaj, Noah Tafilaj, Lana Lowell, Lillyana Labrada, and Daniel Lowell.

Maxine is also survived by her sister, Shellie Newiger of Denton, Texas. She felt blessed to have Tammy Kinch and Ruby Gatling, two longtime wonderful caregivers as friends that were warm, gentle, loving and made it possible for her to stay in her home until her death.

Friends and relatives are welcome to meet with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2014 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, WI 53705. There will be a Graveside Service at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery. People can meet at the Cress Funeral Home or in the parking lot of Cress prior to entering the cemetery across the street.

Memorials and contributions are being accepted in lieu of flowers to the American Heart Association, Diabetes Association or the charity of your choice.