Christopher Donald Bell passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 29, 2024, at his home in Rocky Grove.
He was 57 years old.
Born January 6, 1967, in Franklin, he was the youngest son of John Richard Bell, III, and the late Carolyn Lorraine Walker Bell.
Chris graduated from Rocky Grove High School in 1985, where he was a member of the wrestling team and chess club.
He continued his education at Clarion University and majored in history.
While attending college, he worked at Country Fair and Bi-Lo.
After college, he began working for the Derrick Publishing Company and was employed as a paginator for The Derrick and The News-Herald at the time of his death.
Chris was an avid reader who loved history, politics, and sports.
He enjoyed listening to music, watching movies, playing board games, and following his sports teams: the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Cincinnati Reds.
He played goalie for several teams in the Oil City Deck Hockey League and was also known as a good pool player.
Chris was a quiet man who had a big smile and an infectious chuckle.
He was a wonderful son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend.
In addition to his father, he is survived by one brother, David R. Bell of Rocky Grove; a nephew, Matthew C. Bell of Florida; two uncles: Ray D. Bell of Hurst, Texas and Michael R. Walker and his wife, Connie, of Hadley; two aunts: Susan L. Green of Franklin and Rosalyn A. Miller and her husband, Keith, of Stoneboro; and several cousins.
Chris is also survived by his two life-long best friends: Mark R. Baughman of Franklin and Paul C. Letta of Yorktown, Virginia.
In addition to his mother, Chris was preceded in death by his brother, John R. Bell IV; his paternal grandparents: John R. and Blanche E. Bell; his maternal grandparents: Roy R. and Mary L. Walker; two aunts: Cynthia L. Bell and Marilyn S. Sawmiller; and one cousin, 2LT Zachariah R. Miller.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no viewing and private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.
If desired, memorial contributions may be directed to the funeral home to help defray his funeral expenses.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Timothy E. Hartle Funeral Home, 1328 Elk Street, Franklin.
Please visit www.hartlefuneralhome.com for further information.
