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Larry Bell Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Larry Bell
Del Mobley
December 21, 2004
It is very hard to express how I feel about the loss of a very special friend and classmate. I heard fo Larry's passing on Dec. 3rd at a PCSO meeting in Sacramento. When the announcement was made at lunch, it hit me very hard. I could not concentrate on the afternoon meeting, so I left early to go home.
I have known Larry since our freshman year at UCSF. We became good friends that year and even got out for a few rounds of golf when the rigors of dental school allowed. When we were both selected for the Orthodontic program the next year, we became even closer. With a small group like that, a very close bonding occurs.
After graduation, we went our separate ways,but friendships like ours continue forever. I always looked forward to the Ortho meetings where we could get together for dinner and/or a round of golf.
I have never met a person with as much integrity as Larry and he was certainly a great credit to our profession. He deserves a special place in heaven. I am certainly going to miss him.
My best regards and condolences to Lou Jean and family.
Sincerely, Del and Diane Mobley
Jim and Naomi Miller
December 17, 2004
There is little I can add to all the wonderful thoughts and memories of how Larry affected so many lives. He a special ability to make all those whose lives he touched feel close to him. Naomi and I always looked forward to spending time with him and Lou Jean whenever we were able even though our homes were a good distance apart. We will miss Larry as will all who knew him both professionally and personally. Our condolences go out to Lou Jean and all his family. With love, Jim and Naomi Miller.
Chris Magill
December 14, 2004
Hello Family and friends of Dr. Larry Bell. I wanted to let you know that in my life there have been and handful of people I have met that I liked instantly. Dr. Bell was one who made it as though I had known him for a very long time. My daughter Meghan also liked him. I am a better person for crossing through his path and will remember him each time my daughter smiles.
Linda Smith-Salazar
December 6, 2004
Dear Bell Family,
I am sure that Dr. Bell would have been so deeply touched at the outpour of love, respect, and appreciation, and, of course, the heartfelt loss and sadness expressed about his sudden passing. It has been wonderful to see and hear that Dr. Bell is being recognized by so many as the true "giver" that he was.
For me, as I am sure for many others, this past month has been a whirlwind of many, many memories and reflections of Dr. Bell and the things he most loved....each and everyone of you in his family, his church and his practice where his incredible dedication and talents lovingly designed the thousands of smiles that lifted the spirits and esteem of so many happy patients.
Yesterday, I returned from the Greater New York Dental Meeting, held in New York City and I could only think about the goodness of Dr. Bell. He had compassion for others and gave many chances to people in need. As you know, I am one of those many recipients of his kindness and because I am grateful, I would like to acknowledge his kindness to me:
He had compassion to give me the chance to have the orthodontics that I desperately needed.
He took another chance on me while I was his patient and asked me to work for him after I got out of high school.
He willingly invested in me his time and efforts to give me as much knowledge and training about orthodontics and patient care that he possibly could. He encouraged me during much clinical and technical jargon and confusion, not to give up. Strive for perfection!
He gave me the opportunity and privilege to work by his side for 23 years and share in his passion for the art of orthodontics and his joy in "giving" to his patients. The patient, family relationships and referrals Dr. Bell had in his practice were memorable bonding experiences for all!
He also gave me the foundation and example of his dedicated work ethic, and "patients first" business model. And, as Lenn so candidly said, "always raised the bar". Some may fondly remember one of those challenges as "move it just a hair".
Since leaving Dr. Bell's office, I have remained working in the profession but in dental/ortho sales for 12 years. The years of training and experience I received from Dr. Bell's giving me those chances was a very advantageous preparation for being on the "other side" of the dental business. This foundation greatly contributed to the success of my career. I truly consider any success I may have, is directly related to Dr. Bell's giving me that very first chance. As I often say, "Dr. Bell raised me in the ortho office"!
So when leaving New York City yesterday, a city that I truly love, and a city that has also given me "many chances", I thought it would be appropriate to acknowledge Dr. Bell's compassionate gesture to give me those chances many years ago, and,to say, that he most likely, and very humbly thought were "no big deal." But for me, all of his "chances" were tremendous opportunities that I will always be grateful for.
I also want to acknowledge and express gratitude that Dr. Bell also gave two of my younger sisters, Janette and Sandy, their much needed orthdontics and their own chances to work for him in his office, as they each both did for many years.
I am also very grateful for the beautiful smiles given to both my daughters, Serena and Angela.
This past month, I have scanned and compiled over 150 pictures that I took of the office and the various events over those years....Christmases at the Bells, Annual Birthday Lunches at Anthony's Fish Grotto, Dr. Bell proudly holding "Chunks", those Halloween Days we convinced Dr. Bell to dress up,and yes, he WAS scary!! etc.etc....You will receive the album soon and I hope you all enjoy reflecting and celebrating his time here with us.
You remain in my thoughts and prayers.
With sincere love, gratitude, and alot of special memories,
Linda
(The oldest of the "Smith Girls")
La Verne Smith
December 5, 2004
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as we share in the loss of Dr. Bell.
La Verne Smith
Diana & Katie Matkin
November 23, 2004
Dear Bell Family & Staff-We were deeply saddened to hear of Dr.Bell's passing.My daughter has been in his expert care for the past seven years.He truly made a long and tedious process much easier for her by keeping her encouraged as well as amused.It was always a joy for her to go see Dr. Bell.I know that she will miss him singing that "K K Katie In the Kitchen"song (as she calls it) to her.He was truly one of a kind.We will miss him terribly.With Love,Appreciation & Sincere Sympathy-Diana & Katie Matkin
Sandy Jensen
November 22, 2004
In Loving Memory of Dr. Larry Bell
On the wings of faith I soar above,
Which leads me closer to the Lord's love.
The journey is long, over time, land, and sea,
But I reach the golden shore where heaven smiles on me.
The Northern winds have come and gone,
As I begin my journey home.
May you spread your wings and soar above,
Into heaven's peace.
You'll be in our hearts forever, and a light in a candle always.
Love,
Sandy Jensen
Lynn and Katie Howard
November 18, 2004
Dr Bell helped Katie through that ackward time of braces and teenage years with humor and a firm ' wear those rubberbands!!' look. I can't imagine finishing up this adventure without him, we will never forget him...and be forever grateful for the beautiful smile he has given Katie to always remember him with!!
God Bless the Bell family, may you find peace and comfort.
Wayne Watson
November 14, 2004
LARRY BELL, OUR FRIEND
His humanness reflects life’s metaphor.
Live, Learn, Love, and GIVE
with soul, empathy, wisdom, and worship;
abstract terms known to all in personal metaphor.
Approach this biography with passion
as Larry Bell did life, recognizing Nature’s abundance,
distinct as a song sparrow’s call or a cactus thorn.
Press the wind, whiff blossoms, choose the seasons,
color your leaves, savor the persimmon sky,
and sing your unique song.
He was genius, in embryology at San Diego State College,
and as shown by his magnificent family.
Known as a person with purpose, growth,
and meaningful relationships, Larry practiced
The Golden Rule with respect for life;
a person with principles of integrity, care,
self discipline, and responsible choices.
He was always there to help in dental school
at the University of California in San Francisco.
Larry had a perspective beyond “me and now.”
How rare!
Thank you doctor Bell!
He touches us all beyond this simple tribute,
as husband, lover, father, mentor, orthodontist,
confidant, friend, a person of faith.
He will always be in our hearts.
His legacy is infinite.
wayne watson
Chantelle Harris (Shamoon)
November 14, 2004
Dearest Lou Jean,
My Mother called to say that Bro. Bell passed away. I felt a great loss. Every time I have visited San Diego I have meant to pay both of you a visit and tell you what a wonderful influence you have been in my life, and that of my husband Steven.
When I was still a young woman I remember my sister, Josette telling me of another young woman who bro. Bell was doing her orthodontic work for free because she couldn't afford it. That really impressed me at the spirit of service that sweet man had.
In the 8th ward his service was so wonderful. You could always count on Brother Bell to be working from begining to end. Steven and I both worked closely with him on the activities commitee. When they released me from the commitee they called Steven. I think in some ways that is what brought us together because I was always helping him.
Bro. Bell did so much good, as have you by his side supporting him. I know by far his greatest work and pride was his family. Closely seconded by his work for our heavenly father's children. It is the example of you and other leadership of the singles ward that I try and remember.
Love,
Chantelle, Steven, Brokton, and Evelyn Harris
Deborah Tipps
November 11, 2004
I was deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Bells passing. He finally gave me the smile I had wanted for years and was a pleasure to work next door to him at Dr. Hunter's for so many years. God be with him and his family. Love, Debbie
Cali (Erb) Griebel
November 11, 2004
Dear Bell family,
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Bell. My siblings Norm, Julie and I were his patients for many years, and will never forget the miracles he created through his hands and knowledge of orthodontics. I am forever grateful to him for the work he has done for us. He was an incredible gift to our community and the orthodontia profession. He was compassionate, understanding, and a wonderful Bishop. He always knew when I inflated the number of hours of headgear wear on my scorecard, and worked miracles each time he made small adjustments to our braces. I feel very fortunate to have graced his dental chairs and will carry his gift of a beautiful smile wherever I go. I will also never forget him visiting our house to share juicy oranges in the newspaper's plastic bag. He was such an unselfish and caring person. My condolences go out to his beloved family as well as his dental assistants who have worked closely with him for so many years. He will always be greatly missed.
Peter Bauer
November 10, 2004
Dear Lou Jean and the rest of Bell Family,
I want you to know that it was an honor and a privaledge to have the opportunity to work with Larry down in Chula Vista. He helped me treat the patients at that office for several years, and never once complained of the heavy load. In fact, I think he even enjoyed the heavy load, or at least he seemed to. He was welcomed and appreciated by all of his patients and staff in that office. He would sing, tell jokes, and would always have something nice to say. He was a very generous man and not only did I learn alot about orthodontics from him, but I also learned how to treat the patients as people and not just as patients. Larry taught by setting an example and he did it with such a caring manner. He will truly be missed by all who came to know him. I feel very fortunate to have known and worked with this wonderful man. If I can be of any assistance please don't hessitate to contact me. God Bless you and your family.
Peter Bauer
Gwen Gadd
November 9, 2004
Dear Lou Jean and the Bell Family,
As I was thinking about the wonderful people I've encountered in my adventures, Bishop Bell and you are stand out so much. One of my favorite mental pictures is of Bishop Bell standing in his wonderful white driving cap. He looked so dapper! He always had a way of making people feel welcome and valued. That is an amazing gift.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Michael Felley
November 9, 2004
Michelle and I did a lot of talking last night after I got off the phone with you. I related stories with her about how special of a man I thought Bishop Bell was, and is, and I wanted to share this story with you!!
When I was really young, and I first started going to Bishop Bell’s office for dental work, he would always go out his way to make me feel welcome. He would bring to everybody’s attention that Michael was there. He would tell his other patients and staff, to “watch out for him (me)” because I could do it all. He would tell everybody in his office that I played basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, and pretty much everything else!! He told them all to watch for me because I would “be something someday.” He really believed in me mom and dad. Like I said, he was, and is a great man. He is a person I can actually say… “I treasured his friendship…” Love you,
Frank Creveling
November 9, 2004
To the Dr Bell family,
My sincere sympathy for your loss of one of the finest persons I ever knew.
Ottavio Belvedere
November 9, 2004
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Bell. He took care of our three children. If he hadn't insisted & argued with our son about wearing his head gear, his teeth would not look so perfect.
McNearney
November 9, 2004
We want you to know how dear Bishop Bell is and how he touched our family. We knew him as a man of compassion for others. One who was quiet, but always kind. Who taught others and was a true example of a disciple of Christ. We felt love, warmth and acceptance whenever we were near him. He will be sorely missed. Our love is yours today and always, Kevin and Michelle McNearney
Carol Phillips
November 8, 2004
Dear Lou Jean and Family,
I am so saddened to hear of Dr. Bell's passing. Dr. Bell was such a kind, gentle man & always had a smile for everyone. I so enjoyed seeing him everyday when I worked near by at Dr. Hunter's office. I will keep you in my prayers.
Sandy Jensen
November 8, 2004
To the Bell Family,
Thinking of you, and sharing in your loss. Remembering 22 years of working and time spent with Dr. Bell.
May the Lord bless him, and may he rest in peace.
Good Bye Dr. Bell... you left many beautiful smiles on this earth!
Sandy Jensen
and Family
Elisa Felley
November 8, 2004
Lou Jean and family,
What a priviledge it has been to know Larry Bell. We will always be grateful to your family for the support you have shown. There was a time when our family was seeing Dr. Bell for braces and there were 2 sometimes 3 of us seeing him at the same time. We had some health issues in our family and Dr. Bell allowed us to piggy back our monthly payments. We realized that he had bills to pay and payroll to meet but we are forever grateful to him for his compassion and the love he offered our family. We are grateful to your entire family for the friendship, love and kindness you have always shown our family.
Love,
Mike & Elisa Felley
Cindy Williams (Felley)
November 8, 2004
Lou Jean and Family,
I feel grateful to have been able to get to know him, not only has as a bishop, Dr. and a friend. He was a kind and gentle man. I will miss his smiling face and laughter, especially at church. I am grateful to have know him and to be a part of my life.
Love,
Martha (Marti) Boyas Lee
November 8, 2004
Dear Lou Jean and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I just found out about his passing today and cannot make his services. Dr. Bell gave me my first job after high school as his chair-side assistant for 4 years back in 1964. I took all his x-rays, mixed the meanest cement, trimmed models, and of course assisted him chair-side.
He straightened my teeth twice as well as all 3 of my daughters. He inspired me to go on to school and do great things with my life. I have thought of him many times over the years as he was a wonderful person who will never be forgotten.
Keeping you and your family in my thoughts.
Sincerely,
Martha Boyas Lee
Kurt Stormberg
November 8, 2004
Dr. Bell was a very gracious and well liked orthodontist in our community. He welcomed me when I first came to town and I have always appreciated that gesture. He will be missed in the orthodontic community. If there is anything I can do to assist Dr. Bell's patients or practice please feel free to call. God Bless.
Erin Harding (Jones)
November 8, 2004
Dear Mrs. Bell and Family:
My heart was broken to hear of the loss of Dr. Bell who gave me and my sister our beautiful smiles back in 1970. He always called me a 'Pixie' with a small mouth and I would say, "thats' not what my Mother would say!" He would laugh. People to this day compliment me on my smile and ask if I wore braces. Dr, Bell gave me a lop ear rabbit because I was in 4-H and we came over to your house in El Cajon to pick him up. I named him 'L-Bell' and showed him for many years. I thought of Doctor fondly over the years. I just lost my Mom this past June and miss her much. Your family will be in my daily prayers.
God love and Bless you!
Erin Harding Jones
Jane Herman
November 8, 2004
To the entire family of Dr. Bell,
I was very saddened to read about Dr. Bells passing. He was such a gentle and kind person. Never skipped a beat no matter what we were discussing. He gave me a beautiful smile along with a few of my friends. He will be greatly missed by all of his patients, friends and employees. What will we do without him? My heart goes out to all of you.
Debbie and Tommy Hebert
November 8, 2004
We love you. Richard, Tommy and I will miss you dearly, you have been such a large part of our family for 7 years. You are in our prayers.
Craig and Ellen Garrett
November 8, 2004
Dear Bell family,
We have loved your father and husband ever since we met him. Bishop Bell displayed great love for everyone and His Savior, kindness and understanding to all. We are grateful to have had him as a part of our family's lives.
Love,
Craig, Ellen, Anthony and Aimee Garrett
The Edward Pilley Family
November 8, 2004
Our family was saddened to learn of Dr. Bell's passing. He was a great man-helping many families with their orthodontia care and serving as an outstanding leader in his church. We offer our sympathy to his beloved family.
Richard Manson
November 8, 2004
Dear Lou Jean and family,
Judy and I send our deepest condolences. Larry was a gentle man who helped me many times in my career, as I'm sure he did for many others.
I'm unable to attend his services but would like to offer my help in any way with the practice or personally. Please phone, 760 941-4138.
Dick
Clinton Smith
November 7, 2004
I thank Dr. Larry Bell for giving my children beautiful smiles. He loved what he did for his patients, always realizing that straightening their teeth was only his part in making them come to feel good about themselves. He treated his practice like a ministry to adolescents, loving them all as only someone called to a profession can do. God bless him.
Roccoforte Family
November 7, 2004
We were so deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Bell. Such a kind, caring, and loving man will surely be missed by all. How many beautiful smiles he brought to so many faces. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Brown Family
November 7, 2004
Dear family of Dr. Bell,
We are very sad to hear of Dr. Bell's passing. He was a wonderful doctor and person. We will miss him greatly. Both Ashley & Brittany have been going to him over the past eight years and it will leave a void in our lives. We were honored knowing him. We want to give our condolences to his family and friends.
Love,
Tim, Jackie, Ashley & Brittany Brown
The Cargile Family
November 7, 2004
We were truly saddened to hear about Dr. Bell's passing. My son Zachary and Trevor were both patients of his this year. He was a wonderful orthodontist as well as a very caring man that took an interest in all his patients. He will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends.
Gracemarie Goette/Belvedere
November 7, 2004
Such a sad loss of a wonderful man. Dr. Bell was my Orthodontist as a child and my patient when I was a nurse. My sincere condolences go to his family as are my prayers.
Pat Brattland
November 7, 2004
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Bell..
Dr. Bell cared for all three of our kids, so we have shared many a hour in the office of Dr. Bell..We will miss the TLC from Dr. Bell..and will not forget his great efforts at securing jaw surgery for both boys at Balboa Naval Hospital..
Dr. Bell also took care of my sister's three kids..Indeed a great loss to all families that have walked thru the doors of Dr. Bell and a loss to the East County community...
Very Sincerely,
The Brattland Family,
Pat, Mike and children, Jon, Alan and Elizabeth
Gary Hirsh, DDS
November 7, 2004
My sincere condolences to the whole Bell Family. I was very upset upon hearing of Larry's untimely passing.
The family, profession and our community have lost a wonderful man and orthodontist.
He will be remembered well.
The Young Family
November 6, 2004
We were very saddened to read of Dr. Bell's passing. Our son, Steve, was one of his patients this past year and 1/2 and had just recently finished treatment. He was a very caring and honest orthodontist who will be truly missed. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all of his family and friends.
Sincerely,
Linda Lee and Chuck Bush
November 6, 2004
Dearest Lou Jean and family
So very sorry about the loss of Dr.Bell. I worked for Dr. Bell from 1985 through 1987. He was such a great man with such a wonderful sense of humor. My husband played golf with him several times and he really enjoyed spending time with Larry. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Linda Lee and Chuck Bush.
Linda Shaw
November 6, 2004
Dr. Bell has always held a very special place in my heart. I am proud to say that I had the opportunity to work by his side. He has always been in my thoughts and I will miss him very much. My prayers go to all his family and friends. Sincerely, Linda Shaw
Kristin (Ritter) Halvin
November 6, 2004
I am sorry to hear of Dr. Bell's passing. He was a wonderful and patient doctor. He always teased me about my suburned lips (it was the 70's)and great ability to produce saliva. He gave me a beautiful smile and many years later, my two children became second generation patients of Dr. Bell. He will be greatly missed.
Karen and Amy Kent
November 6, 2004
There isn't a day that doesn't go by that we look in the mirror and our so grateful for Larry's talents. We had our teeth straightened in 1982 and we still have our impressions sitting on our desk. He will be deeply missed but his legacy of family and love will always last.
Carmen Alcantar
November 6, 2004
Dear Family Bell,
My family and I, offer our condoleces to your family,my son was a patient of Dr.Bell almost a year. In the short period of time I find out that he was a very good man and an excellent dentist.We are very sorry for your loss,we will miss he very much.With all our love,Evee,Carmen,Evee Jr,Alcantar
Dr. John Grubb
November 6, 2004
To All of Larry's family and friends. Larry was a consumate professional. His work as an orthodontist was unblemished just as was his life. He truly was a giant among men. I am grateful to have had the pleasure of knowing Larry professionally.
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your tragic loss.
Bobby Wheeler
November 6, 2004
Dr. Bell was a good man. I was deeply saddened to open the paper to this announcement this morning. This is a great loss to not only family and friends but the entire community. Our prayers are with you. God bless.
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