Ellwood D. Bella

He was a third generation town resident born into a family with deep ties in Greenwich. He was the son of Mary Meiko and Daniel Bella, a Greenwich Builder and nephew of Greenwich High School’s Principal Andrew Bella. His uncle Daniel Bella was the founder and pastor or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Byram, CT.

Ellwood attended schools in Greenwich. At 17 he went on to serve in the US Navy during World War II as a Fireman aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Bennington. The Bennington earned three battle stars in the Pacific Theater in 1945.

Upon returning stateside, he went on to work for AT&T for a loyal 41 years. As his boys were growing up, he enjoyed arranging northern New England ski trips and summer boating outings on Long Island Sound. He retired early to enjoy his family and to pursue his passions – fishing, hunting, organic gardening and the Mets.

It is with love and warmth that we remember the life and spirit of Ellwood. He will forever serve as a model of strength and compassion to everyone that met him. We will cherish our memories of his warmth and as a helpful friend in time of need. He was a gentleman and a pillar to the family. Let us remember him for his kindness, honesty and hard work.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Rita Marie Bella and his two sons Dan Bella and Jeff Bella along with his two grandchildren, Kyle Daniel Bella and Anna Victoria Bella. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and those whose lives he touched.

The family will receive friends this coming Thursday, September 23, 2010 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home at 31 Arch Street in Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 869-1513.