Obituary of James (Jock) Brock BELL

April 21, 1921 – February 14, 2020

Jock Bell, beloved father and grandfather, and husband of the late Audrey, passed away peacefully with family at his side, in Calgary at the age of 98 years. Born and raised in Edmonton, Jock was a true Edmontonian in every sense. As a child and throughout his life he had very fond memories of times spent in and around Edmonton, Jasper, Banff and spending summers in Radium Hot Springs and in Invermere, with the Blakley family.

At the age of 20, Jock enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Radar Technician. He was stationed in Great Britain throughout the war. After returning to Canada, Jock attended the University of Manitoba where he graduated with an Architectural degree. In 1951, Jock opened his architectural firm in Edmonton and he took enormous pleasure and pride in a long and successful architectural career. He was most proud of The Law Courts of Edmonton, The Commonwealth Games Stadium, The Pacific Western Airlines Maintenance Center in Calgary, along with several office and apartment towers, recreational, commercial and industrial buildings and a number of healthcare related facilities. Jock was a Life Member and Past President of the Alberta Association of Architects and he sat on the Edmonton Development Appeals Board and on the University of Alberta Hospital Board. He enjoyed volunteering his time fundraising for The Ronald MacDonald House and The Alzheimer Society and was very proud of leading the fight to remove Edmonton’s infamous "Rat Hole" on 109 St.

In 1950, he met the love of his life, Audrey West and they were married in November 1951. Jock and Audrey shared 59 wonderful years together, raising and enjoying cherished time with their family and grandchildren. They enjoyed spending time with friends, travelling, hosting many gourmet dinners, pool parties, motor home trips and they were both avid Oiler fans. They shared a beautiful life together and sadly, Audrey passed away in 2010.

Time spent with his family meant everything to Jock. We loved our dad and grandfather and always felt his unconditional love and support. Jock enjoyed reading, skiing, sailing on the coast with his dear friend Scottie, puttering around the pool and driving to his building. His life passions included the arts and design, architecture, old and new and enjoying a glass of red wine.

Jock will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, his integrity and was always known for being such a gentleman.

Jock is survived by his sons, Duncan (Roberta), Kevin (Chrisely), Munro; daughter Susan (Senge); and his dearly loved grandchildren, Mackenzie, Jessica, Lindsay and Matthew. Jock was predeceased by his parents Captain Jimmy Bell and Susan Bell.

The family wish to thank the nurses and staff at the Colonel Belcher Veterans Care Centre (Lancaster Unit), Calgary for their compassionate and loving care of Jock while he was in their care. Also, a special thank you to the wonderful staff and residents of Canterbury Court in Edmonton, which was Jock’s home for the previous 12 years.

For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jock can be made to The Alzheimer Society of Canada or The Veterans Food Bank and would be sincerely appreciated.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.McInnisandHolloway.com