Marion Bell
1911 ~ October 12, 2015
In her very long and full life, Marion experienced both world wars, prohibition, the Great Depression, early automobiles and aircraft and the newness of visitors from distant parts of the world.
Marion was born in Pincher Creek in 1911, the youngest of five daughters. Marion spoke of her memories of prairie fires, of the native families who still travelled through their traditional territory on horseback, of the relentless wind. Her family moved to Creston in 1921, to the property at the north end of 16th Ave. where she lived for the next seven decades.
Marion’s father passed away in the 1930’s leaving behind a family of capable, resourceful women who maintained enviable standards throughout the depression and the war years. Marion worked as a telephone operator in Creston while her three surviving elder sisters found work in Calgary. Edith, the eldest sister died of scarlet fever, leaving three young children who were raised by Marion and her mother with the support of Marion’s sisters in Calgary.
At the end of the war Marion gave up her job as a telephone operator. She married Syd Bell and they lived in Marion’s family home. Syd owned and managed several orchards with his brother Osborne and later bought an acreage on Indian Road and raised cattle. Marion was a capable partner. She had a very keen mind and supported the family business in every way.
In 1946 Shirley was born to Marion and Syd, loving parents who believed in the merits of patience, tolerance and respect for all men. Marion was a devoted mother, invariably courteous and kind, always true to her beliefs.
Marion, Syd and Shirley enjoyed summer visits from their extended family, particularly from those who had found shelter and love at the old home when they needed assistance. No one was ever turned away.
Marion was fortunate to keep her sharp mind to her last days. She found great pleasure in the company of her friends. Marion loved bridge and played well past her 100th birthday.
To Marion, no one was more important than Derek and Ross, her grandsons. She celebrated their every success and supported all of their ventures.
In 1988, Marion lost Syd and found the old house too difficult to manage on her own. She moved into Hillside Apartments for the best part of the next two decades. Her apartment had a wonderful patio garden which she tended with great enjoyment.
In her late 90s Marion moved to Crest View Village, first in independent living and then to extended care, for the last years of her life. Marion enjoyed her years in Crest View. She was grateful for the kindness and attentiveness of the staff, and for the company and support of her friends in Creston.