Peter W. Bell

Pete was preceded in death by his parents James and Gertrude (Shiring) Bell, and brother Michael Patrick Bell.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 50 years Janet (Elek); son Brad (Amy); daughter Erin (Todd) McCandlish; grandchildren Tanner, Caelie, Madeline, Abaigeal, and Colin; sister Margaret (Robert) Charney; brother James Paul (Kathy); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Pete was born on October 9, 1947 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Westinghouse Memorial High School in 1965, he received a Bachelor's of Science in Education from Slippery Rock University in 1969, and a Master's of Education from Ashland University in 1993. He was an educator in the Columbus Public School system retiring after 30 years of service - a career which he loved and was very proud of. Following retirement, Pete, along with wife Janet, owned and operated rental cabins in Hocking Hills for 10 years.

Pete loved his family more than anything in this world - and they knew it. He was a one in a million husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, teacher, mentor, coach, and friend. Without a doubt, he brought his unique style, wit, humor, knowledge, and opinions to all of those roles. Like any good Irishman, he was an amazing storyteller and especially loved telling his stories to his grandchildren, which they often times listened to in disbelief. He was the hardest worker and toughest person most people ever knew, even as his body was failing him.

Aside from spending time with his family, he was an avid reader, enjoyed remodeling his many homes through the years, collecting model trains and cars, rooting for the Steelers (most years), and starring in his grandchildren's social media posts.

Pete's favorite place since he was a young boy was the Bell family's 200 year-old log cabin in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. He was so happy knowing that he passed down his love of "the farm" to his children and grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date at his beloved cabin in Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Pete's great-grand nephew Reed Halverson (age 3), who is bravely living with Kleeftra Syndrome, a very rare genetic disorder. Contributions for Reed can be sent in his name to 153 Bear Track Road, Rockwood, Pa 15557.