Obituary of Brian Dermot Bell

Brian Dermot Bell, a man of quiet adventure and deep devotion to family, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, at 82. Born February 1, 1943, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he lived a life woven with love for lake summers, loyal dogs, and the people who mattered most.

Raised in Winnipeg’s Lord Roberts neighbourhood, Brian met some of his lifelong friends. He spent summers riding the train to Grand Beach with his sister Shelagh to spend time at the cabin. There, his beloved dog Boots was born—a pup he bonded with over the season and convinced his father to bring home. Boots became a lifelong touchstone, a symbol of Brian’s gentle loyalty. His early years bore the weight of loss when his mother passed away young, shaping his understated resilience.

Brian graduated from the University of Manitoba with his master's degree in social work. This took Brian all around the province, eventually settling in Winnipeg where he worked for the provincial government, giving Brian lots of time to spend with his family.

During his travels through the province Brian rekindled an old friendship. Brian and Arlene both worked in Northern Manitoba, Brian as a social worker and Arlene as a dental hygienist. Quickly they fell in love and began a life together as husband and wife. In 1980 they were married, welcoming their 2 daughters Ainsley and Stephanie in 1981 and 1984.

Brian built their cottage in Lakeshore heights, together as a family they spent their summers together making memories. There was nothing Brian loved more than spending time with his family, whether it was road trips to Calgary to visit family or trips to the cabin he was happiest with his family by his side. Arlene and Brian retired to sturgeon creek retirement residence where they spent their final days together.

Brian was predeceased by his wife, Arlene, his loyal partner of 40 years.

He leaves behind daughters Ainsley (Mike) and Stephanie (Richard), and grandchildren Nicholas, Elizabeth, and Benjamin, who lit up his world.