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John Bell Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Bell
Mike Dumsha
November 8, 2011
I sailed with Jack many times on the PR run. He was a great shipmate and even better fisherman. Jack will be dearly missed by all and never forgotten.
Gus Dunlop
November 2, 2011
Gus Dunlop's notes from Jack's funeral
Jack and I once planned a bicycle trip to Miami to visit his Uncle Buddy. We planned the trip and referred to ourselves as cohorts for some reason, but nothing sinister or criminal was planned, at least not as I recall. We talked about how many days it would take us, how many miles we could cover each day, how long we would ride each day, where we would camp along the way, how much food and what kind of food to take, equipment we would need, just everything we could think of. But, for some reason our parents would not let us go.
“WHY?” we asked. The simple reply, “YOU'RE 12!”
So you see Jack was a traveler from an early age. And later on, after high school, wherever I lived, he came to visit…Louisiana, Texas, Arizona, Georgia……he made a pilgrimage to each place at least once. I have great memories of skiing and fishing and just being together. In the 70's he arrived in the VW Van – many of you remember it. I think I helped Jack move his sister Nancy at least four times in that thing – cramming all her worldly possessions into a VW BUS! In the early 80's he upgraded to a Firebird (I secretly think he did that to get out of the moving business.) But, the great part was, when he was out at sea, I got to drive the four on the floor T-Top Red Firebird. You see, I had moved back here for a time and we spent a couple of years getting to really know each other again as roommates.
I could talk fishing, fishing tournaments, boats, trailers, boats getting repaired, repaired again, boats getting towed in from sea, towed in from sea again…… but, most of you know all those stories and we can certainly share some of those memories later.
Someone said to me just this morning, “I'm sorry you've lost your friend.” And I replied, “Oh, I haven't lost him, I know exactly where he is. He's not waiting on me, he's busy, but he will definitely be there to greet me when I arrive.”
Now that I've thought more about that, he won't be right there to greet me as I arrive, I'll probably have to go looking for him. And I'll more than likely find him helping someone, either fixing something or tinkering with something.
As some of you already know, he comes by that genetically. While Jack and I were growing up, Jack's Dad was always working on a project in the back yard. And what a great back yard to work in! Everything was there…firepit, fishpond, treehouses….plus, engines, tools, old cars, boats!! So, Christina, you know where Michael gets it from – as if there was any doubt.
Just one quick story about friends. As you can see, looking around, Jack had many…..and I could give you many reasons why. But maybe the best answer to why Jack has so many friends came just the other day when I was talking to one of them. Mike asked me how I was doing, and I said 'anhh' OK. We were talking about friendship and other things and then he said “Jack taught me how to be a real friend.” And I thought to myself while driving away, that's the reason Jack has so many.
Michael – looking around the other night at your Dad's house after we heard the news; and looking around here today, it's apparent you have his gift of friendship, too. Caring for others, service to others, sharing the Good News with others – these are the things that make life worth living – these are the things that will see you through. Once in a while though, if you ever need me to answer one of those questions you'd have liked to have asked your Dad, just call, I promise, I'll do my best.
We sang a wonderful song earlier, and, based on a little recent research, I found out it was one of Jack's favorites. It also happens to be one of mine. Amazing Grace! Many of you may know all the original verses by heart. The original fifth verse that wasn't included in the version we sang today goes like this:
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
a life of joy and peace.
Here's the thing……Christ's Amazing Saving Grace has saved me and sustains me……and because of this I am confident, I will see and be with my friend and brother Jack again one day.
I miss you, Jack.
Tasha Dye
October 30, 2011
I first met Jack while we were living in Puerto Rico. My Jack (Dye) was working on the cranes and we would always go out when their ship was in port. It's neat to read the other comments about him because I think exactly the same thing. When I hear his name, the picture that is formed in my mind is him with his warm, welcoming smile and happy eyes. To his children and father: I am so sorry for your loss, I can't imagine how difficult this must be for you. We will miss him too but will always remember the kind, good person he was.
Jack Dye
October 30, 2011
Jack was a great shipmate and friend. I am thankful to have spent time with him and his family just last year when my ship was in Jacksonville. Like he always did, he invited me to stay at his house instead of staying in a hotel. I have many memories of Jack- working in the engine room, fishing, eating oysters in the backyard. I am so sorry to hear of his sudden passing and wish his family well.
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Kay Park
October 27, 2011
During my last conversation with Jack, I told him what a great man he has always been--he smiled with that great big grin and twinkling eyes, and seemed so happy. That is how I will always remember him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his beautiful family. Kay, Steve, Stevie, and Lauren Park
Frank Hribar
October 22, 2011
Jack was one of the most level headed sailors I've had the pleasure to meet. Fun, easy going, and sharp. I'll miss him dearly.
John Timmins
October 22, 2011
I met Jack in 1975 at the Calhoon Engineeing School in Baltimore. About 10 years later I sailed on the Antares briefly with Jack, and it was a pleasure working with him. Mostly I saw him ashore. He was the kind of guy you wanted for a neighbor. I wish his family peace at this difficult time and will pray for it.
Jim Shinners
October 21, 2011
I am very sorry to hear of Jack's sudden and unexpected passing.
He was a friendly and humorous man to be around and a good engineer to work with.
I remember the picture of his young son on his desk when he worked with us ashore in Edison, and how much Jack missed him.
Jim Cosgrove
October 21, 2011
"Tell my old shipmates I'm taking a trip, mates. And I'll see you one day at Fiddler's Green."
Until then, Jack. Goodbye.
Ron Colpus
October 20, 2011
Thanks for all the memories especially with PRMMI and ashore.
Captain Ron Colpus
Capt Dennis Schroeder
October 20, 2011
Jack, a great shipmate and a great person. He will be missed.
Bruce Harber
October 20, 2011
Jack was a dear friend and shipmate over a span of many years. His sunny disposition and unflappable manner in what sometimes were very stressful situations was something I greatly admired. My prayers are with his family today.
Dr's Prizzia and Shields
October 20, 2011
Cindy,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Jack's family during this rough time. We shall keep you and him in our prayers that God's peace be with you. With sincere condolences from all the Girls at Drs. Prizzia and Shield's Office.
Tom Kronenberger
October 20, 2011
Jack was a great classmate always even tempered and humorous, a great guy from group 57 Calhoon 1978. My sympathies to his family.
Amy Smith
October 19, 2011
My heart broke for Nancy when she called me to tell me of Jack's passing. Blessings to papa and all of Jack's family and friends.
Taylor Ginn
October 19, 2011
Jack, you were such an inspiration to me and Thomas. You have truly blessed our lives through your love for our mom. Never before had we seen such an example of love and generosity. I can only pray that one day I will meet a man like you who will treat me and love me how you treated and loved my mother. I will never forget your laugh, your humming, your cooking, or your selflessness with every action towards any one you came into contact with. God blessed so many people through your life and He will continue to bless people even in your death. I love you, Jack. Thank you for everything you poured into my family. We all miss you, but I know I'll see you again one day when it's my time to come home.
Linda Thompson
October 19, 2011
Jack, you were one of my dearest friends. My love goes out to Cindy and your entire family. You will never be forgotten. All my love and respect.
Betty Williams/Johnson
October 19, 2011
There are some people who leave a lasting memory in your life and Jack was one of those. I will keep the family in my prayers. I have wonderful memories of Jack's family years ago at the Community Presbyterian Church.
Fran Rowles
October 19, 2011
His spirit will always be here among those who loved him.
Capt. Tom MacKay, Jr.
October 19, 2011
" Hey Cap can we go to trolling speed?"
Jack, you will be missed by all of your shipmates aboard the Horizon Hawk.
Bill Olson
October 19, 2011
Our sincerest condolences to the family and Cindy for your loss. We will be praying for your comfort during this difficult time. Sincerely yours, The Olsons: Bill, DeeDee, Destyni, Faith and Hope
Melanie Bentley
October 19, 2011
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness I feel about Jack's death. I am here to support you in your grieving process. Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
Neil Barnett
October 19, 2011
Jack was one of the best engineers and shipmates I have ever sailed with. He never lost his cool or his sense of humor. We will all miss him greatly on the Hawk.
Jeanette Schuettner
October 19, 2011
Jack...you were an awesome man and it was a pleasure to have known you.
Waiva Knight
October 19, 2011
words can't express my thoughts. he will be missed by all for his humor and love and kindness. my thoughts and prayer's go out to his family and Cindy. we love you all. Jack thank u for the Tea and salsa you always know how to make us smile.
Earle Ginn
October 19, 2011
We will never forget "Smiling Jack Bell". He was a prince of a man and a one of a kind. Our sincere sympathy, thoughts and prayers go out to Jack's family and to Cindy.
Earle and Beverly Ginn
Julie Nowak
October 19, 2011
Cindy and family,
May the love you shared live forever in your heart, bringing you comfort and lasting peace. He will be deeply missed.
Frank Washburn
October 19, 2011
I worked with Jack on many of his ships and realize what a positive influence he was in the lives of all of us. He was a great shipmate in every way.
Frank Washburn
Joe Blunt
October 19, 2011
Jack was an excellent engineer and an even better friend!
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