When I was a young lad  at Subic Bay Naval Base, Philippines (1970-1975),  my father was the production control manager of the Ship Repair Facility (SRF) there .  He knew Denis Bell through his uncle,  Mr. Dwyer (I can't remember his first name), whom my father had worked with at the Brooklyn Navy Yard (officially the New York Naval Shipyard, which closed in 1966).  

We made contact with Denis around 1971 or 1972 in Subic Bay Naval Base, Philippines.  He was attached to a squadron on the USS Hancock.  As a child, I remember being welcomed aboard the ship.  I remember that he flied the F8 aircraft and that his squadron was November Papa.

When we left the Philippines, we visited Denis at his home in Colorado Springs, CO.  He was an instructor at the USAF Academy.  That was a sign of how accomplished he was as a Naval Aviator!

Well, the reason that Denis was so influential in my life is that after my father retired from the federal government, he decided on living in San Diego.  Denis had a house in Scripps Ranch and rented to us. 
My parents eventually went back to their roots in New York.

But I -- well,  I loved California so much that I've lived here for two-thirds of my life.   I have lived mostly in the SF Bay Area, but now I live with my wife of 26 years -- who is a San Diego  native -- in San Diego.

I should have looked him up sooner.

Tom Hamill

Denis became my closest friend in the US. His ability to find the best in people was wonderful and to work together around the world was a most memorable time of my life.
He is missed by friends and associates around the world.
Terry, I wish we were living close together to be able to share those wonderful years in San Diego more often.
Lots of love from Eric & Lucy

I have just learned of CAPT Denis "Taco" Bell's passing.  I had the pleasure and privilege of working for Taco at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City from January 1987 until his retirement from the U.S. Navy in 1988.  As the first Coast Guard Officer to be assigned as an attaché in the Defense Attaché System, Taco was an excellent mentor as I learned the duties and responsibilities of the unique assignment.  He was the consummate gentleman in his dealings with superiors, subordinates and peers, a skilled diplomat in his relations with our host country officials and other nations' diplomatic personnel, and most importantly a trusted friend and confidante. My deepest sympathies go out to Terry, Michael and Brendan.  Rest in peace Captain!

Sending love and warmth to you and yours, Brenden. 

Sincere condolences and hugs, 

Beatrice
415-610-6236

Dear Terry, Mike and Brenden, 
I just learned of Denis' passing and wanted you to know how truly sorry we all are for your loss. The time and miles of separation between us has never altered the love and cherished memories we have always had of the wonderful times we shared together as neighbors in San Diego and coming up to visit you during the holidays in Colorado Springs. We sincerely love you with all of our hearts and will forever hold you close in our thoughts and prayers. May Denis rest in the Lords peace and never be forgotten.

Forever and Always,

Jeff Wiles and Family 

Dear Terry,
 We are truly saddened by Taco's passing and your deep personal loss.  While remembering all the good times we shared while living in Newport and attending Naval War College, we send our sincere condolences to you and your family.

Rick and Bonnie Arluck 
NWC Class of 1977  

Dear Terry
Please let me express my deepest sympathy for the loss of Mr. Denis Bell.
I'm honoured to have known him, worked together  as a team, Denis in San Diego U.S.A and  me in Kobe Japan. 
Mr. Denis Bell was truely a great man  and also was a heart-warming  person. 
I can imagine the sadness you must be feeling,  please accept  my condolences to you
and your family.
Hisai Ishizuka
2000-28  Hamajima- cho Shima 
517-0404 Japan. 


Dear Terry, Mike and Brenden,

We are truly sorry for your great loss.      May fond memories bring you comfort during this most difficult time in your life.       You are in our prayers.

Al and Marie



Dear Terry, Mike and Brenden.
 Our families have been close friends for 50 years and Denis was a central character for both families throughout all that time. His friendship, fun loving character and love of family became an outstanding example for all of us and he will be missed terribly.
 Please accept our most sincere condolences to you and your families on the loss of Denis, his passing leaves a great hole in all our lives and he will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace with the Lord.
With our love to you all on this most sad occasion.
Eric Oakes and family.


Dear Terry with Family our deepest condolences to your loss. Dennis will always stay in our minds as the truly friendly and warm-hearted person that we were fortunate to experience at work in San Diego and leisure time in Finland. Our thoughts are with You at this most difficult Time. 
Folke and Solveig

For over 50 years -- from Annapolis and Mannion's in the Bronx to San Diego -- I always felt as if we were brothers. Go with God my friend.
Roommate, USNA, Class of 1963

To the Bell Family,  my deepest condolences fo your loss.
I truly enjoyed knowing and traveling with Denis in Mexico.  It's tough to find the right words, so I will end with,  Vaya con Dios Amigo!





OBITUARY

Denis Joseph Bell

August 3, 1940 – February 27, 2018

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

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