It is with great sadness the family of David Fredrick Bell announce his passing on Tuesday June 6th at St Joseph's Hospital.
David was born April 17th 1947 in Sioux Lookout, the youngest of seven children. As a young teen he and his family moved to Caribou Lake, Armstrong where he grew up working alongside his father and brother learning commercial fishing. He loved his life there, surrounded by a large extended family and he liked nothing more than to recount stories of the many adventures and escapades they had, some of his happiest times were laughing and reminiscing with family. As a young man he moved to Thunder Bay where he met the love of his life. He and Sheila married in 1976 and together raised three children. David's greatest joy was his family and his love for them was immeasurable. He was a kind and generous man who had a genuine interest in every person he met. Nobody was a stranger for very long and everybody was always made to feel welcome. He had a true gift for seeing what was important in life and his legendary sense of humour drew people to him wherever he went.
Predeceased by parents Frederick Bell and Bernadette Doyle, sisters Janice, Ellen and brother Jim.
Left to mourn are his wife, Sheila. Daughters Kati (Dave), Clare and son James (Anna). His three grandchildren Evan, Jack and William. Sisters Arleigh, Linda and Aldene along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the exceptional and compassionate care David received from Dr Shack. Thank you also to Dr DeBakker, Dr Miller, Sherri and the palliative care team, Lucja and Donald, St. Elizabeth’s and the staff of 5 South St Joe’s. A special thank you to Robyn who helped care for David over the last year, your kindness and humour meant so very much to both him and the family.
The service will take place on Thursday June 15th at 1:30 at Blake Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Luigi Filippini. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
Fisherman's Prayer
God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day,
And when it comes to my last cast, I then most humbly pray.
When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep,
That in His mercy I be judged as good enough to keep.
