Roger Michael Bell, 82, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., originally from Newbury Township, passed away on Nov. 9, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer.
His passing comes one year after the loss of his beloved wife and soulmate, Charlotte Ann Bell, to whom he was married for 59 years.
Roger was born in Cleveland, the eldest child of Al and Thelma Bell. The family later lived in Garfield Heights and Newbury, where Roger and his siblings — Karen Thompson, Richard Bell, Kathy Bell, Mary Gifford and Pat Neuman — shared a loving upbringing.
Roger and Charlotte were classmates and graduates of Newbury High School, but their romance began years later when Roger was home on leave from the United States Navy. They married in June of 1965, beginning a lifetime of love, partnership and devotion.
Roger served proudly in the Navy for 20 years, retiring in 1979 as a decorated serviceman. During his time in the Navy, he developed a lifelong passion for the ocean and sailing, eventually owning his own sailboat and spending countless cherished hours joyfully hosting friends and family on the water.
Following his military career, Roger pursued higher education at San Diego State University, earning a degree in mathematics with a focus on computer programming. This led to a second successful career with 22 years of service at General Dynamics and BAE Systems.
A devoted Christian, Roger dedicated his life to serving the Lord Jesus alongside Charlotte. His kindness and generosity were hallmarks of his character, as he frequently opened his home to those in need and offered unwavering support during challenging times. His faith and willingness to lend a hand left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
Roger is survived by his children and their families, Dennis and Joy Bell, Charlene and Mike Murphy, Michael and Dey Bell, and John and Karen Bell; as well as his siblings and their families, Richard Bell, Mary and Dave Gifford, and Pat Bell Neuman.
He was a proud grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of five. His legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in their lives and the many others he touched.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Al and Thelma Bell; sisters Karen Thompson and Kathy Bell; and his beloved wife, Charlotte, with whom he is reunited, sailing peacefully into eternity and continuing to serve the Lord in Heaven.
A service celebrating Roger’s life and legacy will be held on Jan. 13, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Evident Life Church, located at 415 N Gilbert Road, Gilbert, Ariz.
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