My Dad loved to take Mom to the Original House of Pancakes on Western Avenue in Chicago,  for breakfast. Our family has a long history of going there, since Monica and I were kids. They sold little stuffed animals made in Japan at the cash register, back then, in the 60-70's, and we grew quite a collection. I still have and treasure several of them. My favorite breakfast is their Buckwheat pancakes. Dad was always pleased to plan a trip to the restaurant whenever I came to visit-he knew it would be a special treat for me. I loved the time, together at the table. Freshly-squeezed orange juice and thick bacon strips.  And Mom & Dad.

Grandpa will be remembered fondly and sorely missed.  With so many memories of celebrating holidays and special days together, as well as of stories from our mother's childhood, he will live on in our hearts and minds.  Life is precious and there never seems to be enough time, but we are so fortunate to have had Grandpa in our lives as long as we did, and will continue to honor his memory through our family.

Dad,

I will miss you so much.
I will miss your corny jokes and puns, your example as an insatiable reader and your positivity even when you were ill.
Rest In Peace.
Mom,
Your love and devotion to Dad was inspiring.
Your strength through these difficult times was a wonderful example of your love. I hope your many good memories will provide comfort.
Love,
Monica

I have so many memories of holidays with Grandpa.  He was always eager to share his recently published pieces, allowing me to learn not only what good writing looks like, but also some intricacies about the world of finance and real estate. I remember getting to giggle at his “dad” jokes, and share smiles as we’d recount stories about our beloved pets.  I will forever be grateful for his devotion to my dear Grandmother, and for his part in bringing my amazing mother into existence. 
Love always, 
Sara

My father was a determined man.  He was the kind of guy that wanted to bring a Christmas tree home so he dragged it from the nursery on Kedzie Avenue to our house... which if you're from the neighborhood, you know is a mile or two. 
 He was the kind of kid that took a cross country trip with his best freind at the age of 14 with nothing more than camping gear.
 My dad was the kind of young man who knew that a girl named Virginia was the one, so he found a way to be near her, after meeting her at Wilson Jr. College. He volunteered to help on a project  my mom was involved in,  and ended up at the dinner table night after night until my grandfather said..." doesn't this boy have a home to  eat at?"
My dad taught me to be undaunted. 
My dad showed me what that looked like. I love you, Dad.
Vanessa


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John R Bell

September 3, 1930 – January 15, 2020

Blake-Lamb Funeral Home

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