Obituary of Ronald Gordon Bell

Ron Bell

1942 - 2020

Ron lived a full life.  He was a devoted husband and father who was involved in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives.  He loved to travel, golf, and spend time at the cabin at Waskesiu. 

As a young man he was active in his high school council, YMCA leadership, and sports. When a lifeguard at Waskesiu Lake he taught many children how to swim and respect the water.  Throughout his life he served on many boards, was on the ski patrol at Blackstrap, and coached his children’s sports teams. Ron loved working out with his friends at the YMCA  (every day!) and ran miles and miles to stay in shape, often riding his bike to work before it was fashionable and before bike lanes existed.  Enjoying the game of basketball he played until his mid 40s, even playing against his son in senior men’s league.  Continuing his interest in sports Ron attended every one of his kid’s games until he was eventually the only spectator at many senior men’s basketball games.  Once grandchildren arrived, he supported and enjoyed all their efforts in sports and the arts.

Ron was a respected lawyer and judge who believed all people had the right to be represented and to be heard. A loyal and supportive friend to many, Ron enjoyed and cherished time with friends when traveling or at the lake. He was a remarkable chef and consummate host who enjoyed entertaining family and friends.  Ron’s meals rivaled any elite restaurant and he loved sharing a bottle of red with his guests and family.

For 56 years Ron was a loving and supportive husband of Leslie in all her endeavors. He loved and was very proud of his sons and their families: Curtis and Shanna (Olivia and Mackay); Craig and Darlene (Ethan, Liam and Sophia); his brother Dick and Caryl and nephew Rich and Emi (Lauren and David). He also loved all the family dogs and found comfort in their presence.

A private family service will be held at a later date to remember Ron as an active, intelligent, loyal and loving person and a strong man who controlled his destiny until illness prevented that.

A sincere thank you to extended family, friends, St. Paul’s Hospital and especially the hard working and caring staff at Luther Special Care Home. In lieu of flowers please donate to the LutherCare Foundation at luthercare.com