I got to know Don Bell at my dad's Monday Lunch Bunch. This informal group has been meeting weekly, since long before they all retired.
I still look forward to those hour-long encounters when I am in Riverside. When Don was present, he would quiz me, with genuine interest, about events since my last visit. Then he would, with a wide smile, pose a provocative question about some issue of the day. Don liked to poke at my liberal leanings with his astute conservative thinking. We did not change change each other's positions, but we did gain a better appreciation of the wide range of opinions thoughtful people can have on any important subject.
Don always listened carefully, and was unfailingly polite. His thoughts reflected his deep care for the community- both the immediate group of ROMEOs, Retired Old Men Eating Out, and the larger community of Riverside, and the USA. I will miss his cheerful presence, his thinking, and his smile.
My sincere condolences to Jan.

Don Bell was a longtime, dear friend of my parents, a true gentleman in the old style, the warmest person you could ever meet. So terribly sorry to hear of his passing; another "hit" for Riverside's finest. He will long be remembered by all in our family, for the many kindnesses shown to my parents, and his ever-present good cheer. Rest in Peace, what a wonderful way to live a life. My sympathy and condolences to his wife, Jan, and familyKatharine Rawdon, Lisbon, Portugal (from Riverside)

As a Comfort Keeper, I met Don just a few months ago but knew from the start that he was a man of integrity who loved his family.  I feel honored to have had the opportunity to get acquainted with him and his lovely family even if it was for just a little while.
You have my deepest sympathy and prayers.

I met Don over 50 years ago as a young draftsman for his homes.  He always treated me as an equal and was quick with his compliments.  I had the honor of attending his Christmas luncheons for many years.  His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Charles Brown, Architect

A true gentleman and a genuinely kind and generous man.  I knew him for nearly 25 years and I will miss him very much. My thoughts and prayers are with Jan and their family.

I met Don Bell when I was a little girl just 5 years old, in kindergarten with his daughters.  More than 50 years later I can still say that he was a wonderfully kind man and a genuinely interested listener.  Visiting with him was a gift, because he always had genuine questions and then listened intently when you answered him.  Don was a 'Class Act,' a Riverside legend, and a success as a human being both personally and professionally.  We will all miss him terribly but we carry with us nothing but positive, happy memories of this incredibly good man.

I miss breaking bread with Don and Jan every Tuesday
and  miss his intelligent banter.
Love,
Joan Sinclair

OBITUARY

William Donald Bell

April 28, 1925 – October 24, 2015

Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary

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