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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dick Daniel Bell on July 19, 2026, at the age of 98. Although our hearts are filled with sadness, we find comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his beloved wife of nearly seventy years, Minnie Bell (née Bay), who predeceased him on June 8, 2025. Their love story was one of unwavering devotion, quiet partnership, and unconditional love—a love that shaped generations of their family.
Dick’s greatest joy was always his family. He leaves behind his loving children: Joady Bell (Larry Bloom); David Bell; Karyn Burleigh (Paul); and Debby Brown (Bobby). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Cory; Breanne; Jenna (Adam); Jordan (Kady); Jason; Jonah (Danielle); and Justin. In addition he leaves his precious great-grandchildren: Charlize; Zack; Mimi and Eva. Each carries forward the love, kindness, and values he instilled in them throughout his life.
He was predeceased by his parents, Helen and David Bell, and his siblings, Morley and Lucille. He was affectionately known as “Zadie” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—a title he wore with immense pride. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Tannis Mindell (Sheldon); Glenda Segal (David); Les Silver (Andi); Fern Goldman; Narvey Goldman (Mara); and Andi Bell.
Born in Winnipeg on December 28, 1927, Dick attended Luxton School and St. John’s Tech, graduating in 1945. He celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at the Jewish Orphanage Synagogue in 1941. Dick developed a passion for music at the age of nine when he first sat down at a piano. Music became the soundtrack of his life. By seventeen he was performing professionally, and while attending the University of Manitoba he formed his own orchestra, entertaining audiences throughout Winnipeg and beyond. Even in his later years, the familiar sound of his beloved Chickering Louis XV baby grand piano, one of his most treasured possessions, filled his home with warmth, laughter, and memories. Family members could always count on hearing a few favourite tunes, especially the Bugs Bunny melodies, which always brought smiles.
Dick’s professional life reflected the same qualities that defined him personally—hard work, integrity, and kindness. In 1948, Dick joined the family business, Western Smallware and Stationery Co. Ltd. After joining Western Smallware, he met the woman who would forever change his life. Minnie became not only his wife, but his partner in every sense of the word. Together they created a home filled with warmth, generosity, and unconditional love. In 1979, Dick founded Dick Bell Agencies and began representing toy manufacturers throughout Canada. Years later, with great pleasure, he welcomed his youngest daughter, Debby, into the business and proudly shared that chapter of his life with her.
Above all else, Dick was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, an adoring grandfather and great-grandfather, and a loyal friend. His gentle spirit, generous heart, quiet wisdom, and wonderful sense of humour made everyone around him feel welcome and loved. He delighted in telling corny jokes that, invariably, brought much laughter to family gatherings.
Dick and Minnie embraced life together. They traveled the world on more than thirty cruises, creating adventures and memories that they treasured. Yet for Dick, no trip ever compared to the joy he derived from simply being surrounded by his family. Whether celebrating holidays, birthdays, or ordinary Sunday afternoons, he was happiest when with those he loved. Camera in hand, he faithfully preserved countless family moments – not because they were extraordinary, but because he believed every moment together was worth remembering.

Dick and Minnie were devoted members of Shaarey Zedek Synagogue throughout their married life and generously supported many causes close to their hearts, including the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Combined Jewish Appeal, and the State of Israel. Their faith was reflected not only in what they believed, but in how they lived—with generosity, humility, compassion, and gratitude.
At the age of 58, Dick underwent quintuple bypass surgery—a life-changing event for both him and Minnie. From that day forward, Minnie devoted herself to his health and well-being, carefully managing his heart-healthy lifestyle and encouraging his daily walks. Her unwavering love and care, combined with Dick’s determination, helped him enjoy many more years of good health and precious time with his family.
One of Dick’s final gifts to his family was the autobiography he wrote, preserving the remarkable story of his life for generations to come. But those who knew him understand that his true legacy cannot be contained within the pages of a book. It lives in every lesson he quietly taught, every family tradition he helped create, every melody played on the piano, every photograph he carefully took, every joke lovingly repeated, and every life he touched with his kindness.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dick’s compassionate caregivers, Mae, Emmanda, Tammy, Sandra , Estela and Nette for the loving care they provided both at home and when Minnie and Dick transitioned to the Simkin Centre.
The family wants to especially acknowledge a number of individuals for their exemplary care and devotion to Dick – Dr.John Rabson, Dr. Grant Goldberg ,Dr. Marni Wiseman and Dr. Wayne Manishen. We are also deeply grateful to the dedicated staff of the Simkin Centre.
Dick lived a remarkable life, but those who loved him will remember something even more remarkable: the way he made each person feel valued, welcomed, and loved. His gentle presence was a blessing to all who knew him, and his love will continue to live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all whose lives he enriched.
We will miss him beyond words, love him always, and carry his memory with us forever.
For those who wish, donations in Dick’s memory may be made to the Saul & Claribel Simkin Centre, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, or the Congregation Shaarey Zedek, Choir and Music Fund.

(nee SELLERS)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Reesa Nerman on July 18th, 2026.

Reesa will be lovingly remembered by her son Seth (Patricia) Nerman; grandchildren Maja and Isla Nerman; sister Michelle (Harvey) Chochinov; brothers-in-law David (Pat) Nerman, Howie (Marla) Nerman, and Gary (Mary-Ann) Nerman; sister-in-law Lisa (Allan) Gold; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She is predeceased by her parents, Sam and Sheila Sellers; and her husband, Shep Nerman.

Reesa was born on May 30th, 1954, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She grew up in West Kildonan and graduated from Garden City Collegiate in 1972. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Manitoba and spent over 30 years working for the Child Guidance Clinic as a school social worker. Some of her happiest professional years were spent at Robert H. Smith School, where she found not only meaningful work but also an exceptional team of colleagues who became cherished friends. Her dedication, competence, and compassion were remarkable. In the years following retirement, Reesa was often approached by families she’d helped, who shared their deep gratitude for her guidance, caring, and the impact she made on their lives.

She was strong, even when life tested her. After becoming a widow at the age of 38, she made it her priority to provide the best possible life for her son, Seth. She was courageous and resilient in the face of adversity, finding joy in Seth’s achievements and celebrating every milestone. They shared an unbreakable bond. When Patricia came into Seth’s life, she was comforted to know that he now had a family of his own.

Perhaps her most cherished role in life was Baba. The sun rose and set with Maja and Isla. She was a constant in their lives from day one: having sleepovers, driving to and from daycare, attending dance recitals, and providing a constant supply of Baba’s cheese kugel and coffee loaf.

Reesa made a home that was always filled with friends and family. Her generosity and hospitality were boundless. She had a way of making people feel welcome; whether by offering food, or offering her time, her love, or thoughtful advice.

Thank you to all those who cared for Reesa during her brief illness, driving her to and from appointments, providing meals, and keeping her company so she wouldn’t feel alone. For that we are so grateful.

Thank you, as well, to the physicians and nurses who cared for her. We are especially grateful to the staff of Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care Unit for their exceptional kindness, compassion, and care.

To her friends and family, she was a constant source of encouragement and support. Her love was genuine and a gift we will always cherish. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

Donations in Reesa’s memory may be made to the Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care Unit.