Charles Leslie Bell

Charles 'Chuck' Leslie Bell passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 18, 2024 in Courtenay, BC at the age of 77 years.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 57 years, Elaine. His children Darin (Angie), Stacey (Gerald), Leah (Curt); grandchildren Carter, Alyssa (Jordan), Tanner (Crissanna), Kaitlin (Amy), Jacob, Riley (Abby), and great grandson, Brodie; and numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his loving parents Myles and Pauline Bell, sister Karylanne Bell, as well as his grandparents who raised him Gladys ‘Nanny’ and Urban ‘Urbie’ Embelton.

Chuck was born in Harvey Station, New Brunswick on December 23, 1946. His adventurous spirit began at a young age when his family moved from New Brunswick to Terrace, BC, and later to Vernon, BC, during Chuck's teenage years.

After high school, Chuck started working with the railroads (CP Rail) in Revelstoke, BC, where he met the love of his life, Elaine. They moved to Vernon, BC, got married, and started their family. Chuck's upbringing included carpenters in his life—his dad (Myles) and grandfather (Urbie)—so it was no surprise that he began building homes with his dad in Vernon.

In 1974, Chuck and Elaine moved east to Nova Scotia, where Chuck worked in cement finishing for 5 years. Their journey continued to Hinton, Alberta, in 1979, where Chuck ran a building supply company. Eventually, they returned to BC (Falkland) in 1981, where Chuck continued to build and renovate homes.

After their children finished school, Chuck and Elaine embarked on a new chapter. In 1989, they moved to Salt Spring Island, spending just over 10 years there before retiring to the Cariboo in 1998. Their dream home awaited them on Lac La Hache, BC—a log home shell that they meticulously finished to Chuck's exemplary standards. Chuck thrived in the Cariboo, where he spent countless hours on the lake doing what he loved best, fishing.  He knew all the best places, and all the best people to fish with.

It was with a great deal of heartache that Chuck and Elaine had to leave their home of 20 years on the lake. Chuck spent his final days surrounded by family and friends in the Comox Valley.

Chuck's legacy lives on through the numerous woodworking projects and memories he created and the love he shared with those around him. May he rest in peace.