BELL – William John Bell passed away on May 3 with family by his side. William, commonly known as Will, Willy or Bill, was a loving husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle and friend. William’s final years were challenged by the progression of Alzheimer’s. He will be deeply missed by all his family and friends.
Born May 1, 1938, in Brooks. Willy was the oldest of two boys from Charlie and Mable Bell. He grew up on a farm just outside of Brooks. On January 8, 1966, William married the love of his life Alice Buteau. That same year he bought a piece of land South of Brooks where Willy and Alice raised their two daughters, Carolea and Shawna. Willy loved all things farming and spent his life devoted to both his family and farm. He would always make time, despite a busy farming schedule, to be involved with the kids and their events like 4H meetings and shows, sports events, or even just a swim in the canal. They were very close with Alice’s siblings and family, so he always had someone to talk to about farming (his favourite subject). Willy had a heart for all animals, always enjoyed a good chuckle and having summer vacations with family. During his later years Willy enjoyed watching the Bandits games and attending events at the Prairie Pioneers including pie day and floor curling with his buddy. He loved having pie and coffee at Bow Slope or going to Tim Hortons where he could always find a good “bull shit session”.
Left to mourn are his daughters, Carolea Bell Renaud and Shawna (Martin) Wiebe, his grandchildren Jesse Renaud, Jamie (Casey) Renaud, Alaina (Denver) Stronks, Aaron (Megan) Wiebe and Carrie and his great-grandchildren, Jaylynn Renaud, Rowen Renaud, Alessi Bell Renaud, Korben Stronks, Hadley Stronks and Conrad Stronks.
William was predeceased by his wife, Alice in 2022, his mom, Mable in 1993, his father, Charlie in 1974 and his brother, James in 1951.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, May 16th from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Prairie Pioneers Club in Brooks. It will be an informal “come and go style” gathering with coffee and snacks provided.
