J. Ian Bell

BELL, J. Ian
March 18, 1943-February 9, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ian Bell, age 82, peacefully at his home in Guelph.

Beloved husband of 54 years to the late Margaret Bell (2017). Loving father to Heather Coolahan (Joe) and Karen (Robin). Cherished grandfather to Callum (Elizabeth) and Desdemona, great grandfather to Evie and Alister. 

Ian is also survived by his sister Moira Shortt and nephew Kevin (Jennifer).

Ian was born in Scotland to the late Jean and William Bell and immigrated to Canada at the age of 5, but later in life returned to Ayr, Scotland where he met his wife Margaret in 1963. Ian was a millwright and worked at National Standard in Guelph for over 30 years, following that he worked as a gardener at the Cutten Club. He was very proud of his Scottish roots and was a life long fan of the Glasgow Rangers. Ian was full of adventure, he had a true curiosity for life and a thirst for knowledge along with a most excellent sense of humour made only more enjoyable by his boisterous laugh. He was a man of many interests, a lover of history, music, movies, gardening, travel and sports. He had a great love of golf and sailing. Our dad was generous, thoughtful and kind. 

Ian will be deeply missed, always amiable and a good conversationalist we hold fond memories of him.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held in the spring. Details to be announced. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

Donations can be made to the St Joseph’s Health Centre in Guelph. 

A tree will be planted in memory of J. Ian Bell in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.