Dec 4th 1950 - Oct 19 2016
It is with profound sadness and breaking hearts that we announce the passing of Bob Bell on October 19, 2016. He fought valiantly to stay, but he could not win the fight. He leaves behind his loving wife of 38 years Ruth, children Chelsea (Jon), Dean (Jen), his 3 beloved grandchildren Liam, Ophelia and Gavin, mother Olive, brother Pat (Lene), sister Lesley(Richard), mother and father in law Margaret and John, sister in law Louise(Scott), and many loved nieces, nephews and extended family and many many friends and co-workers.
Bob was born in the Comox Valley and although he worked away he never wanted to live anywhere other than Vancouver Island, and especially the Comox Valley. Bob graduated from GP Vanier in 1968 and went directly to work with B.C. Hydro. He would work at B.C Hydro for 38 years and then continue working in the line trade at Allteck Line Contracting, and more recently for Arctic Arrow Line Contracting. Bob loved his work and worked on and oversaw many large and exciting jobs all around B.C, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Over his many years he acquired a vast knowledge of all aspects of the Line trade and was always happy to share and pass on his knowledge to up and coming younger linemen. He was a mentor to many, and he had deep connections with many of his co-workers throughout the years. He was a man’s man, never afraid to say if he saw injustice, always fighting for the men under his watch. He called himself a dinosaur, but he worked hard everyday expecting the same from others, and was not afraid to give tough love if he thought it necessary. He was well respected by his workmates and all who knew him.
Bob was an outdoor kind of guy. He loved fishing, hunting, camping, walking and generally enjoying the outdoors. He first went hunting at 15 with his long time friend Jim Barry and through the years spent many happy times hunting and fishing with many dear friends. He especially loved bird hunting with his loyal companion Willow, whom he loved with all his heart. Many happy times were spent camping at Rock Bay and Muchalat Lake with great friends too numerous to name, but you know who you are.
In the past 10 or so years Bob spent many a happy and hilarious times travelling to Mexico, and more frequently snowbirding to Arizona with longtime great friends, Don and Barb and Curt and Odette. Bob made many new friends every year during our stay south where he enjoyed golfing, slow pitch, swimming in the "poolo " and of course, happy hour.
A hole has been left in our lives that will never be filled. He so wanted to stay to see his grandchildren grow up and he had much still to share with them. This was not to be, and the hurt is almost too much to bear. We wanted more time. He loved his children fiercely and was so proud and happy to see them happy in their own lives. That's all he ever wanted for them......health and happiness. The days ahead seem bleak and empty.
Love you forever.
A celebration of life is being set up please inquire in the next few days.