Donald (Don) R. Bell, died peacefully Thursday, July 7th at the age of 84. He was a happy and gentle man.
Always considered himself to be a member of the 1950 Fairview HS Class, even though he moved to Richmond his senior year. Don graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 1955. Long-time member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity enjoying house reunions until the last few years. He joined the Army and returned to Ohio.
He proudly joined Wright State University as one of the "Pioneers" when it was just a farm house operation. After serving in several capacities and obtaining his MBA, he retired as Director of Materials Management.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Patrick, and brother-in-law Tom Reitz. He is survived by his beloved wife Alice; daughters Vicki (Steve) Hayes, Pam (Kevin) Warman both of Cincinnati; step children Mike (Elaine) Rieske, Robin (Brian) Rieske, and Teresa (Bud) Johnston. A major joy in his life was his 13 grandchildren: Paige, Grant, and Ross Warman; Ben, Rachel, Leah and Caleb Fleischer; Kristin, Erin (Mason) McKee, and Jack Rieske; Mitch (Ashley) and Kelly Johnston; and Silas; His sister MaryAnn Bell; so very helpful sisters-in-law Agnes (Fred) Brinkman, Ginny (John) Jauch, and Janet Reitz; and his dog and best friend Archie.
Don loved sports of all sorts (especially the UC Bearcats), politics, music and most of all camping. He and Alice worked as volunteers at Cowan Lake State Park for 7 years loving every day - including so many memorable adventures with the grandkids.
Don was a member of the Dorwood Optimist Club running their Christmas tree lot for many years as well as a variety of other activities. A special shout out to the guys at McGillicutty's who provided stimulating conversation that he enjoyed so much.
Too bad he will miss the upcoming election.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
