James Edward Bell

BELL, James E. "Jim"
Galesburg, MI

James Edward Bell, age 97, passed away on Sunday, September 23, 2018 in Plainwell, MI. He was born on February 9, 1921 in Creal Springs, IL, to the late Frank B. and Grace (VanderWall) Bell. At the age of two, the family moved to Comstock, MI where Jim grew up and graduated from Comstock High School in 1939. Jim attended machinist classes at Western Michigan College before enlisting in the USMC in 1942. He served the entirety of the war in the Pacific Theatre and was honorably discharged in 1945 as a sergeant. He returned home and joined his father in running the Bell Greenhouse family business, where he worked until 1980. Jim also served as the Comstock Township Treasurer for many years. In June of 1949, Jim married the former Margaret Peters who preceded him in death on January 31, 2016. While the children were young, the family was active in 4-H. Jim and Margaret also enjoyed square dancing and were long time members of the Iris Society. An avid gardener, Jim maintained extensive gardens at their home and were always happy to show visitors around. During their retirement years, Jim and Margaret spent many winters down south, mostly in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Horseshoes, antique collecting, casino trips, and sightseeing were favorite activities there. When back home and in later years, Jim and Margaret enjoyed the company of friends and family whenever they could visit. Jim was also preceded in death by four siblings. Surviving are four children and their spouses, John & Deborah Bell, Cathy & Paul McClain, Sarah & Tom Hildebrand and Scott & Karen Bell; nine grandchildren; six great grandchildren; a brother, Frank Bell; and many nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place. Graveside services with military honors will be held Wednesday, October 10th at 1:00 pm in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the service should be in the cemetery assembly area by 12:45-1:00 pm. Memorials may be directed to Disabled American Veterans.