It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Alfred Allen Bell, on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 one day short of his 90th birthday.
Dad was a very family oriented man, who always took great joy in seeing his 5 children, 10 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.
Dad had an illustrious career in education, starting in Mitchell Ontario before spending many years with the Sault Ste. Marie Board of Education. He served with distinction as a teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal, and finally Superintendent of Education.
Following his retirement, Mom and Dad moved from their family home on Morrison Avenue, to the family farm on Pioneer Road in Dayton, Ontario. There Dad pursued his passion of farming, tending to his gardens and at times, small herd of cattle. The farm served as a gathering place for dad's children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. There were also many extended family gatherings, as many of the members of the Bell Clan had cottages nearby on Bright Lake.
Dad spent 65 years married to the love of his life, Joanne Edna Bell (nee Rankin). Dad always said Mom was always the lynch pin of the family. Sadly, with Dad's failing health, it was necessary for him to go to the F.J. Davey Home for the past year. With covid restrictions, he was unable to see family as frequently, but kept in regular touch through phone calls and Essential visits. The family would like to thank the Staff on Birch 2 at the FJ Davey Home for supporting dad through this past year.
Dad was predeceased by his Parents, Charles and Euphemia Bell, 4 brothers, Tom (Donna), Bill (Clare), Fred (Anne), Doug (Gloria) and his in-laws, Borden and Sadie Rankin.
He will be greatly missed by his 5 children, Charles(Carol), Stephen (Julia), Colleen, Keith (Shannon), Bill (Marcy), 10 grandchildren, Allyson (Josh), Spencer (Kendra), Stephanie (Chris), Gavin (Melissa), Makenna, Jak, Tyler, Dylan, Borden, Bree, 5 great-grandchildren, Carson and Brexton Lepore, Raelyn Bell, Gracie Jo and Henrik Anema.
At Dad's request, visitation will be restricted to immediate family at this time, with a larger celebration following at a later date. Memorial contributions to Parkinson Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. 705-759-2522). Please visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave a message of condolence or a memory as a keepsake for Allen's family.
We will all have fond memories of Dad wiggling his ears at his grandkids and singing "the cow kicked Nellie in the belly in the barn".