Obituary of Rhoda Marcella Bell

December 30, 1928 – Coronation, Alberta

June 27, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of Rhoda Marcella Bell of Calgary, AB, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at the grand age of 95 years.

Rhoda was born in Coronation, AB, to the Krossenger family, who had recently immigrated from Norway. Life was extremely difficult, and at 18-months-old, Rhoda was lovingly taken in and raised by the Weeks family, whom she always considered her true family. During the 1980s, she reconnected with her biological family and cherished sharing her life experiences and engaging with her newfound relatives. She also learned to speak Norwegian and maintained connections with relatives from Norway until her passing.

Rhoda's career began as a store clerk, and she went on to work as a private secretary for Earnest Manning. She later became a Class 1 examiner for the Royal Life Saving Service, a judge for synchronized swimming, a lifeguard, and a Water Safety instructor. At the age of 45, Rhoda attended university and qualified as a teacher, a profession she passionately pursued until her retirement. During this period, she also taught piano in the classroom and played in school choirs. She dearly loved her teaching career.

Rhoda was predeceased by her husband, Laurence, and her son, Kevin, both in 2010. She is survived by her son, Raymond (Olga); granddaughter, Colby (Jonathan); grandsons, Davin (Monika) and Joshua; grandchildren, Milnuza, Kasper, and Henrietta; and great-granddaughter, Constance.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, July 5, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Salvation Army, 1731 29th Street SW Calgary, AB, T3C 1M6, , Telephone: 403-410-1112, www.salvationarmy.ca, or to World Vision Canada,  1 World Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L5T 2Y4 Telephone: (866) 595-5550, www.worldvision.ca.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Rhoda’s family here.

In living memory of Rhoda Bell, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.