Laurence Gerald Bell
March 4, 2023
BELL, Laurence Gerald – Gerry passed away at Strathcona Long Term Care, Mount Forest, on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at the age of 91. Beloved husband of Verna Bell for 65 years. Loving father of Catherine Bell (Paul Brandsma), Mike (Shang) Bell, and the late Joanne Bell. Dear grandfather of Andy (Anna) Langton, Stephanie Langton (Ken Leung), Eric Bell, and Matthew Bell; and great-grandfather of Oliver Langton and Samantha Leung. Survived by his siblings: Shirley, Dawn, Judy and Vern. Predeceased by his sisters: Joan, Connie and Sharon. Remembered by his many nieces and nephews.
Gerry grew up attending a one-room schoolhouse, earned his university degree and spent the majority of his career working as a Metallurgical Engineer at Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL). In his retirement, he owned and operated Bell Recycling. Gerry was known for his incredible sense of humour, his laugh and love of singing. He was hardworking and always kept himself busy fixing things, painting, building and creating. He cared deeply about the environment and the creatures on this earth. His zest for life will live on through his family.
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Gerry are asked to consider the Alzheimer Society of Canada. Arrangements entrusted to the England Funeral Home, Mount Forest.
Condolences
Catherine, Mike, Auntie Vern and family
I’m grateful I was able to spend a few days with Uncle Gerry last year and enjoy doing things he loved - painting, chatting and baking, and especially singing along to his favourite songs. It’s nice to have recent memories. Glad also to have spent time with all of you - family time is precious. sending love and hugs -Glynis
We enjoyed getting to know Gerry as he sat at the same dining table as our mothers. He would sing and hum with us and seemed to really enjoy humming "Somewhere over the rainbow". Our condolences to all of you.
Keith and Doris Aitken
So sorry to hear of the passing of your father catheren. We will be thinking of you and your family at this time. Tim and Glenda Healy
— Tim and Glenda healy, March 8, 2023Catherine, my sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your dear father. I never met Laurence, but in reading his obituary, I can see that you are your father's daughter. I hope that knowing all your did for him, particularly in his difficult last years, will bring you some peace. Again, my condolences.
Iris xo
Catherine, Michael, Auntie Vern: Memories of Uncle Gerry from the '50's and "60's, when I was growing up, include sail boat rides at Deep River. It was especially exciting when Uncle Gerry let me take the tiller. He even helped me rig up a sail on my bed at home, so I could put out to sea before going to sleep.
I was always fond of Uncle Gerry for his gentle way, his kindness, and his humour.
I offer my condolences for the loss of this very fine man.
I’m so sorry for your loss Catherine. I know how much you loved your dad. Thinking of you and your family through this very difficult time
— Cathy Mackenzie, March 7, 2023I’m sorry Catherine… My sincerest condolences.
In the words of Helen Keller: “what we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”
Thankfully, your last visit was very well timed. I hold you in my heart & in my prayers during this difficult time.
Keep well.
Bernadine.
Dear Catherine and the Bell family,
My heart is with you as you grieve the lost of Laurence, father, grandfather.
May your beautiful and fond memories offer you some peace in this time of sorrow.
With love,
Jane Czarny
Vera, Catherine, Andy, Steph & families,
My heart goes out to you all. It is never easy losing someone you love so deeply and you have know your whole life. I pray that God comforts you as you grieve your loss and gives you the strength you need to get through this difficult time.
All my love and deepest sympathies.....
Lisa Walker
May his memory be forever in your hearts.
Offering my deepest condolences.
Dear Catherine & All
What a beautiful man was your Father. Although I had never met him, I see that his brilliance & deep care for the environment is being lovingly continued through his cherished off spring.
With heartfelt condolences, Dianne