It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Haxton Bell, beloved husband of Johann Bell of Coleman, Alberta, who succumbed to his illness at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre on July 13, 2017 at the age of 83 years.
Jim was born on February 17, 1934 in Grainger, Alberta to proud parents, Stewart and Rose Bell. Raised from humble beginnings, Jim learned to appreciate the rewards and pride from a hard day’s work. He gained employment as a truck driver hauling loads, traveling many miles and tireless hours behind the wheel of his rig. The solitude of the open road appealed to Jim and he spoke little but reflected a lot. He was nicknamed “Silent Jim” for his reserved nature but his big heart and compassionate, gentle nature won the affections of a lovely lady, Johann Mae Cooper and, after a brief courtship, they were married sharing sixty years of love and devotion as well as being further blessed with a family to care for. His dedicated work ethic and love for his family defined Jim and, along with the occasional hunting, fishing and camping trip, were the greatest joys in his life. Jim’s life was full and he knew joy and love but his legacy will be his treasured memory and the people that will hold his memory in their hearts.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Johann Bell of Coleman; his children, Brenda (Jeff) Schlender of Hillcrest, Pati (Charlie) Edwards of Hillcrest, Jamie (Barry) Hanna of Coleman and Mike (Sherry Adams) Bell of Red Deer; his grandchildren, Dan (Dakoda) Kuftinoff, Jennifer (Mike Riley) Schlender, Corinna Hanna, Elysa (Greg) Anderson, Kyle Bell, Payton (James Copeland) Bell and Megan Majore; his greatgrandchildren, Mikka Kuftinoff, Kiara Copeland, Haxton Anderson and Liam Demers; his brother Albert (Marj) Bell of Calgary; his sister, Marie (Murray) Saunders of Bowden; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents, Stewart & Rose Bell; his precious grandchildren, Stewart Schlender and Gary Kuftinoff; three siblings; one niece; and one nephew.
The Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, July 22, 2017 at Fantin's Funeral Chapel (13461-20th Ave) in Blairmore with the reception to follow at the Coleman Legion. Donations in memory may be directed towards the CNP Health Fdn, Box 455, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.