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DICK DANIEL BELL
Born: Dec 28, 1927
Date of Passing: Jul 19, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDICK DANIEL BELL
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dick Daniel Bell on July 19, 2026, at the age of 98. Although our hearts are filled with sadness, we are comforted in knowing that he is reunited with our mother, Minnie, his beloved wife of nearly seventy years, who predeceased him on June 8, 2025. Dick was also predeceased by his parents, Helen and David Bell, and his siblings, Morley and Lucille.
Dick leaves behind his children: Joady Bell (Larry Bloom); David Bell; Karyn Burleigh (Paul); and Debby Brown (Bobby). He also leaves his grandchildren: Cory; Breanne; Jenna (Adam); Jordan (Kady); Jason; Jonah (Danielle); and Justin. In addition, he leaves his great-grandchildren: Charlize; Zack; Mimi; and Eva. Dick is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Tannis Mindell (Sheldon); Glenda Segal (David); Les Silver (Andi); Fern Goldman; Narvey Goldman (Mara); and Andi Bell.
Born in Winnipeg on December 28, 1927, Dick attended Luxton School and St. John’s Tech, graduating in 1945. He celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at the Jewish Orphanage Synagogue in 1941. Dick developed a passion for music at the age of nine when he first sat down at a piano. By the age of 17, he was performing professionally and, while attending the University of Manitoba, he formed his own orchestra, entertaining audiences throughout Winnipeg and beyond. Even in his later years, Dick continued to tinkle the ivories on his beloved baby grand piano.
Dick's professional life reflected the same qualities that defined him personally - hard work, integrity, and kindness. In 1948, Dick joined his family business, Western Smallware and Stationery Co. Ltd. Shortly thereafter, he met Minnie Bay, the woman who captured his heart and would forever change his life. Minnie became not only Dick’s wife, but his partner in every sense of the word. In 1979, Dick founded Dick Bell Agencies and began representing toy manufacturers throughout Canada. Years later, with great pleasure, he welcomed his youngest daughter, Debby, into the business and proudly shared that chapter of his life with her.
Dick and Minnie embraced life together. They traveled the world with a sense of adventure and enthusiasm, creating treasured memories. Although Dick derived great pleasure from his travels near and far, that pleasure never surpassed the immense joy he derived from simply being with his family. Camera in hand, he faithfully preserved countless family moments - not because they were extraordinary, but because he believed that every moment spent together was precious.
Dick and Minnie were devoted members of Congregation Shaarey Zedek throughout their married life and generously supported it together with many other causes close to their hearts, including the State of Israel.
At the age of 58, Dick underwent quintuple bypass surgery - a life-changing event for both him and Minnie. From that day forward, Minnie devoted herself to Dick’s health and well-being, carefully managing his diet and encouraging his daily walks. Without a doubt, Minnie’s unwavering care and attention, combined with Dick's determination, extended the length and quality of his life.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dick's extraordinary caregivers, his skilled and compassionate doctors, and the devoted staff at the Simkin Centre.
The family is grateful to Dick for having gifted them with the story of his life by writing his autobiography, preserving his remarkable journey on Earth for generations to come. His gentle presence was a blessing to all who knew him, and his love will live on forever in the hearts and minds of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren.
We will miss him beyond words.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 08, 2026