Earle Howard Bell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Earle Howard Bell. Earle passed peacefully in his 84th year on January 12, 2025 at the Hospice Peterborough surrounded by family. We thank the staff for their care and comfort of Earle and the entire family during his short stay.

Son of Edith (McIlmoyl) and Howard Bell. Brother of Barbara (Bill), Ron (Mary Elaine) Sharon (the late Guy) and the late Beverly (Leighton). Husband, friend and life partner for 65 years to Donna (Short). Earle said the day he married Donna was the best day he could remember. Father to Rick (Wendy) and Shari Lee (Jim). Grandfather to Nicholas (Kait), Dylan (Carley), Cassidy (Kurtis), Julia (Phil) and Tyler (Katie). Great Grandfather and G-Pop to Blakely, Brodie, Nolan, Ellie, Poppy and Arlo.

As Vice President of Sayers and Associates, Earle worked on major projects including the Square One Shopping Center in Mississauga and the St. Laurent Shopping Center, Westin Hotel, and the National Gallery of Canada, all in Ottawa.

He retired in 2005 and could often be found travelling the roads around Peterborough in his spotless truck with old country music playing (none of that new crap), stopping whenever he could to visit with family and friends.

His favourite poem, by Robert Frost, had two lines Earle lived by: “But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep.” Earle travelled many miles ensuring those close to him knew he cared and was there for them.

Earle was also a longtime member of the Lions Club and served proudly and selflessly as a club founder and loyal member for decades. However, later in life Earles’ loyalties were to his new favourite club, “The Quitters Club”. This is where Earle could be found enjoying a good cigar, coffee, and chat with his buddies.

The man, the myth, the legend fought it all the way. Never one to give up, he fought after being shot, Hepatitis C, prostate cancer and multiple surgeries. He lived life on his terms and did it all his way to the very end.

A visitation will be held at Ashburnham Funeral Home – 840 Armour Road, Peterborough on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM followed by a reception. If desired, memorial donations to Hospice Peterborough or a charity most meaningful to the donor would be greatly appreciated by the family. Condolences may be shared and donations made by visiting www.ashburnhamfuneral.ca.

The King is gone but not forgotten! We Love you!