WILLIAM BELL

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WILLIAM BELL Sadly we announce the passing of our husband and father Bill Bell, just shy of his 91st birthday. Bill was predeceased by his brother Dave (Second World War). He will be greatly missed by his wife Beryl; and children, David (Liz) and Diane Gray (Neil); grandchildren, Willie and Alex Bell, Jane MacMillan (Shaw), Ross Gray (Elizabeth); great-grandchildren, (Katie, Emma, Halle and Jack); and his sister Margaret Adams. Papa led a great and full life. Born February 22, 1914, in Winnipeg, Papa attended Cecil Rhodes School and Daniel MacIntyre Collegiate. He enjoyed track and soccer. During the war years, he started a tiny two man garage foundry. Later, with his dad and sister, he built a large and prosperous hi-tech business in St. James - The Bell Foundry. Papa was especially proud to be the first to introduce ductile iron and induction melting to their line of work. Papa was very active in the St. James Kiwanis, shepherding many projects including the 170 Squadron Air Cadets (1957 to 1988), the St. James Kiwanis Courts and his final home the Metropolitan Kiwanis Courts on Ness Avenue. His 50 years of Kiwanis involvement saw him receive many accolades including being named a Mel Osborne Fellow for lifetime achievement. Papa had many friends and was a kind and generous man. His summers at the family Betula Lake cabin were especially wonderful. Water skiing and happy hours with the neighbours were regular highlights. Certainly a life well lived - he will be greatly missed. A celebration of Bill's life and a service led by his friend Major Len Millar will take place Friday, February 25 at 2:00 p.m. at Metropolitan Kiwanis Courts, 2300 Ness Ave., with reception to follow.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 22, 2005