Gerald McKinley Bell passed away suddenly Thursday, March 10, 2016 in Kelowna, BC. Gerry will be remembered by his wife Irene, children Marni (Mike), Scott, and Tama (Jason) and grandchildren Mckenna, Flynn, and Malley Richardson, McKinley, Finbar, and Hamish Bell, Kinsey, Lexi, and Brix Corday, brother Brian Bell, his wife Patricia, and their families.
Gerry grew up on the family farm in Lake Errock and attended school in Deroche and Mission, all in BC’s Fraser Valley. For many reasons he had a fondness and connection to the Yukon. His earliest teaching position was in Whitehorse where he met Irene, his partner for life. They moved to Summerland to raise a family; there, he took up a teaching post at Summerland Secondary (SSS). Gerry was outgoing and had a good word for everyone. Many peoples’ memories will include having him on their side, working for their betterment, and generally trying to make everyone’s day and life a little better. A landmark contribution was the development, with other close “tennis friends,” of the Lakeshore Racquets Club. It was a centre of family life for years. Gerry spent his retirement years playing tennis, golf, and volleyball daily with friends. His family and friends relish the memories they have of their time with him. As his daughter Tama says, “the best man ever.” His family thanks everyone involved in his care. A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, April 30th at 10:00 am at the Springfield Funeral Home (2020 Springfield Rd., Kelowna). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cancer Centre for the Southern Interior, 399 Royal Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 5L3. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:
www.springfieldfuneralhome.com
250-860-7077