Cloudy, 27° F
(Jan. 24, 2010)
Robert Lewis Bell, 85, died Jan. 24, 2010, at his home in Powell.
He was born on June 5, 1924, in Frannie, the son of Thomas Eli and Lottie Mae (Henry) Bell.
He attended Deaver High School and married Gloria Wagner on May 12, 1945, in Red Lodge.
Robert served as a corporal in the U.S. Army, and he later worked as a supervisor of oil field production for Continental Oil in Frannie for 38 1/2 years.
He was a member of the American Legion, and he traveled extensively with his wife. His most memorable trip was to recognize the 50th anniversary of D-Day on Omaha Beach. He also enjoyed following his grandchildren’s sporting events.
Robert is survived by his wife, Gloria, of Powell; son Ronald R. Bell (Barbara) of Woodburn, Ore.; daughters Dianna James (Gary) of Helena, Mont., and Debbie Borcher (Ken) of Powell; sister Florence Wambeke (Fred) of Deaver; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren, with another due in July.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Tom Bell; and a grandson, Robbie.
At his request, no services are planned. Memorials in Robert’s name may be made to the Gift of Life Housing, Benefis Healthcare Foundation, P.O. Box 7008, Great Falls, MT 59406 or www.benefisfoundation.org, or to Powell Valley Hospice.
Thompson Funeral Home is handling arrangments, and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.thompsonfuneral.net.
