Bell, Donald Charles

It is with profound sadness that the family of Donald Charles Bell announce his passing on Friday, July 14, 2023 at the age of 81 years. 

Donald was born on May 8, 1942 in South Bend, Indiana to parents Donald Clyde and Ina Bell.  As a young child Donald’s family moved to Geneva, New York.  After graduating from Geneva High School, Donald enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the USS Cascade, a destroyer tender, during the Vietnam War.  His home port, however, was Newport, Rhode Island, where he met the love of his life, Terry.   They were married in 1966 and raised a family of three boys in Pittsford, NY.  

Having developed a high aptitude for optical instrumentation in the Navy, Donald worked for Bausch & Lomb, Milton Roy and Spectronic Instruments in various capacities including Engineering, Manufacturing Supervision and Facilities Management.  He retired from St. John Fisher University in 2014 where he worked as a Purchasing Agent.  

While he enjoyed work, he was a naturalist at heart.  Donald had a deep appreciation for nature and could often be found with his fishing rod (rarely a fish) alongside a forested stream.  When he was not in nature, he enjoyed replicating it in his own backyard.  Donald carefully designed a Japanese rock garden which consisted of a Koi Pond, cascading waterfalls and Japanese maples. In this way, Donald cultivated a landscape that evoked tranquility and serenity.   This sense of calmness and mindfulness truly exemplified his spirit. (Alprazolam)      

Donald had a kind heart and a gentle soul.  His smile could light up a room and elevate your mood instantly.  Donald was a humble, selfless man whose passing left an unfillable gap in the hearts of his loved ones.  He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.  

Donald is survived by his loving wife, Terry of 57 years; and his children, Brandon (Jennifer), Shannon (Karla), and Ryan.  He will be forever cherished and remembered by his three grandchildren, Kyle, Catherina, and Sofia.  

Donald was predeceased by his parents and brother, Jerome.       

There will be no calling hours.  Donald requested a private, family only, graveside service.  

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Wilmot Cancer Center, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or U of R Medicine Hospice.