Obituary of David Lee Bell

Master Sergeant David Lee Bell Bell, David L., passed away peacefully in his home on Friday August 18, 2023, after a short bout with cancer. David was fortunate enough to find a loving companion in his surviving partner Connie Schils. He is preceded in death by wife Bernice, daughter Kathleen and grandson Timothy, his parents Ernest and Alice Bell and siblings Stuart, Vernon, Muriel, Judson, and Russell. His family moved into Ontario County over 200 years ago. He worked on the family farm which is now part of Finger Lakes Community College. David retired as a Master Sergeant from the military after serving his country for over 21 years in both the Air Force and the Marines. He was a Vietnam vet, with three tours of duty in Vietnam. He also retired from Mobil/Exxon as a maintenance engineer and worked at Victor Hills Golf Club as a groundskeeper. He was active in the Canandaigua VFW and was recently recognized as the oldest surviving Vietnam Veteran in the Canandaigua 2023 Memorial Day Parade and was nominated for the Veteran's Hall of Fame for his work with underprivileged youth. David was an active member of the Canandaigua Moose Club. For over 25 years, he worked year-round holding raffles and seeking donations for the Angel Tree Program which he and his wife, Bernice, established. The collections/donations were used to obtain food, clothing and toys for the needy who may go without during the holidays or if there was a dire need. He worked with local school administrations to obtain a list of names that need a little extra help during the holidays. For over 65 years, David volunteered to work with children's charities beginning with his time in the military. He never needed accolades or thanks as he truly did it for the children. He is survived by three daughters Linda, Cindy, and Cheri and her son Barry, and other grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his stepson Richard Turner, his wife Shelly and grandchildren Brett and Alex, stepdaughter JoEllen and granddaughter Corey. He also is survived by nieces, nephews, and friends that became family. All who knew him loved him dearly. Calling hours will be held Friday, September 29, from 2pm to 4pm at Fuller Funeral Home, Inc. 190 Buffalo St. Canandaigua. An 11am memorial service with military honors will be held at the Funeral on Saturday, September 30. A 12:30pm Celebration of Life will follow at the Moose Club, 305 Ontario St, Canandaigua. David will be laid at rest with his wife of 39 years, Bernice at the Finger Lakes Veteran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Angel Tree Program through the Moose Club. To share a memory or express condolences online please visit www.fullerfh.com