Richard James Bell's Obituary
Mr. Richard James Bell, age 93, passed away Sunday, January 15, 2012 at Seminole Shores Living Center. Richard was born August 16, 1918 in Newaygo, MI to Willard J. and Ruth (Hatch) Bell. He graduated from Newaygo High School in 1936. Richard then attended Grand Rapids Junior College and graduated in 1938. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1941. He was employed at Bendix Aviation in South Bend, IN until 1945. He returned to Newaygo to run the Newaygo Engineering Co. with his brother, Millard. Richard owned and operated the Newaygo Engineering Co. for 30 years prior to his retirement in 1973. He also served as part time director for the Fremont Area Foundation from 1971-1978. Richard married the former Marilyn Jennings in 1941 and she preceded him in death in 1977. He then married the former Mary Kay Payne in 1978 and she preceded him in death in 2009. Richard moved to the Muskegon area in 2004. Richard enjoyed golfing and fishing. He also loved cars and watching U of M football games. Richard was a beloved father, a charming gentleman, and a good provider. He is survived by his 2 daughters, Barbara A. (William) Gibner of Muskegon and Nancy J. (Rich) Ward of Bonita Springs, FL; 4 grandchildren, Jamie (George) Goulet, Sam Gibner, Michelle (Bryce) Bedner, and Richard (Stacey) Vogler; 5 great grandchildren, Sarah Bedner, Ethan Bedner, Will Vogler, Jack Goulet and Ben Goulet. In addition to his wives Marilyn and Mary Kay, he was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Millard Bell; and 2 sisters, Shirley Mateer and Mary Bell. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be 11 AM Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at The Walburn Chapel, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd. 231-759-8565 with Rev. Timothy VanderHaar officiating. VISITATION will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS may be made the Seminole Shores Activity Fund. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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