Richard C. Bell

SPENCER; Richard "Rich" Bell, age 86, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 5, 2024, at his home, feeding the birds on his back deck, just as he would have wanted. Rich was married to his best friend Marian B.(Penttila) Bell for 61 beautiful years, raising two beloved daughters, Kristina Leach and Rebecca Bell.  In addition, Rich leaves behind his son-in-law and "buddy", Tim Leach, and his two cherished grandsons, Zachary Q. Leach of Spencer and Benjamin M. Leach of Westford. He was predeceased by his sister, Janet Beer. Rich was an avid hunter and outdoorsman and simply loved working in his yard, and walking around the ponds he built years ago. He had a huge appetite for both life and food, thinking nothing of driving over an hour to get the perfect prime rib. Rich could always be found with a smile on his face and a dog treat in his pocket for his many canine friends and companions. He worked hard, thought nothing of cutting a cord of wood well into his 80s and had a zest for life that kept him young and a pleasure to be around. He was, in short, a truly "great guy" who will be missed by all who knew and loved him! Rich loved spending time with his family, including vacations to Disney, on Cape Cod and in Maine, walking the Marginal Way.  He was blessed with many cherished friends, enjoying many meals, hands of cards and good times with them over the years. After graduating David Prouty High School, Richard spent 30 years working at Norton Company, retiring in 1993, and was also co-owner and operator of Spencer Industrial Painting. Calling hours will be held Wednesday, February 14 from 9:00 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. with a memorial service to follow at 10:30 A.M. in the J. HENRI MORIN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 23 Maple Terr., Spencer. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Spencer. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Second Chance Animal Services, Inc. P.O. Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515.