Henry Preston Bell
June 23, 1931 - June 17, 2015
Obituary
Henry P. Bell 83, a life-long resident of Seattle, passed away peacefully from complications of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease on June 17, 2015. Henry was born to Henry C. and Ruby Davidson Bell June 23, 1931 at Providence Hospital in Seattle, Washington.
He was a graduate of O’Dea High School and the University of Washington. Henry was a dedicated and admired educator for four decades; Department Head of Industrial Arts and Technology Education at Garfield High School and State instructor for teachers who taught skilled trades. He was a member of Phi Delta Kappa, numerous organizations and recipient of many awards including Educator of the Year. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.
Henry enjoyed classical music, history and western movies. He especially relished in model cars, road trips and activities with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Lee Bell, daughters Valerie (Darius) and Angela (Chris) 2 granddaughters, 1 grandson , and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers Richard and Arnold Bell.
His inquisitive nature and his kind spirit will be forever missed. A viewing will be offered Friday, June 26th from 2-7pm with a celebration of life to be held on June 27th at 11AM both at Bonney Watson Funeral Home – 1732 Broadway, in Seattle, Washington. Burial, 2PM June 30th at Tahoma National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 22003, Seattle WA 98122-0003.
My deepest Sympathy goes to the Bell family during these hour of sorrow. I worked with Henry for many years in the Vocational Education Department of the Seattle Public Schools. He was always a ray of sunshine when he came into the office. Be strong and know that God is watching over each of you as with Henry.
I was very sorry to hear about Henry’s passing. I didn’t know that he had Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. I remember fondly all of his friendship and help at Garfield and for all of our teaching careers. I will miss him. I am not able to attend the memorial service but will be at the service at Tahoma Cemetery. My condolences and best wishes to Mary, Angela and Valerie.
My sincere condolences to the Bell family. we know you have lost a very special man and only time will partially heal your hurt. Henry was a man with high standards and values and he lived up to all of them. As a fellow teacher, I found myself always listening and learning from Henry’s thoughts and perspective. I am so sorry for your loss…