Robert Henry BELL

October 9, 1921 - May 13, 2022

At 2:00 a.m. Friday, May 13th, Bob died at the Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital after a brief illness. He served his community, his country and touched the lives of many people in so many different ways. Bob was blessed with family and friends that loved and respected him. He was married to Ruth, the love of his life and center of his universe for seventy-one years. Theirs was a real-life love story. After retirement from G.M. as an administrator in production control, Bob transitioned to executive director of the Hotel Dieu Shaver Foundation. He developed a fondness and respect for staff that he believed provided a level of care unrivalled by any other institution. Perhaps it's fitting that he spent his final few days in their care. Bob led a full and active life. He had many outside interests, but his greatest joy was music. As a youth he competed in festivals and performed at recitals. In 1947 he followed a brilliant young organist named George Hannahson into the choir loft at Knox Presbyterian Church. They forged a friendship that extended far beyond the walls of the church and they remained close until George's untimely death in 1984. Bob had a successful political career that spanned three decades. He was a WWII Veteran, Legion member, Mason, Gyro and a lifetime member of the Old Boys Lacrosse Association. Some of his best days were spent on and off the golf course with Al Colbey. Bob enjoyed winter vacations in Florida and for many years he spent the first week of August at Torpitt Lodge on Sparrow Lake. There he reunited with friends from across Canada and The U.S.A., it was a very special place for him. Bob was so happy he was able to remain in his home. The meals were great, and a Gin and Tonic magically appeared before him at 5 o'clock. Felix, the cat, was great company. He welcomed visits and phone calls from old pals, Al Colbey, Edwin Graves, Porky Douglas, Don McMillan and Jim Bradley picked up the phone whenever Bob called him at the Region. Special thanks to Barb Jadwiszczak who was so kind to Bob in his final years; Nadine Champis at the Foundation "For all you do"; Reverend K. McQuarrie for Pastoral visits; and Micki Lowderman, who despite her own daunting medical challenges always kept in touch and organized a Christmas Carol Concert in Bob's living room with other choir members. You couldn't wipe the smile off his face. To Sister Louise Dillon and staff at the Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital for making Bob's final days so peaceful. The Hoogasian family who were always front and center at every event or fundraiser. Bob was overcome when the family honored his 100th birthday with a stone in the healing garden at the Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital. There is a special place in Bob's heart for all of you. Thank you, Al Colbey, for all the wonderful times Bob enjoyed with you and for everything you've done over the years; he thought you were one special guy. In honouring Bob, a Celebration of life will take place on Saturday, May 28th at 11 a.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, 53 Church Street, St. Catharines. If so desired, donations to The Hotel Dieu Shaver Foundation would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144.

Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca