Harold Grange Bell

Born December 20, 1925 in Johnston City, Illinois to Arthur and Laura (Kelly) Bell died on Friday, March 18, 2011 at the age of 85.  He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce and second wife, Sarah “Sally” as well as his brother, Lamont Bell and sister, Catherine Dillow.

Grange graduated from Southern Illinois University with a B.S. Degree and Michigan State University where he received a Master’s Degree.  He was a teacher, counselor, athletic director, and administrator, in the Lansing School District for 28 years, mainly at C.W. Otto.  After retiring he started a new career as a travel agent and tour guide.  During this time he traveled all over the world extensively.  Grange served in the U.S. Navy as a radio operator aboard the USS McDougal during WWII and the Korean Conflict.  He officiated high school football and basketball for 30 years.  Every M.S.U. home football game found him working the “Chain Gang” for 40 years.  Grange is survived by his children Nancy (Dale) Smith, Grange Bell, Leslie (Ron) Hodges, and John Bell; stepson, Charles Cary Brown of Chicago; brother, Noble (Shirley) Bell of Jackson; sister, Marion Edwards of Cape Girardeau, MO.; grandchildren, William (Jen) Ryals, Joy (Kevin) Whipple, Grange G., Elizabeth, Travis Bell, Angie (Adam) Helms, Jessie Hodges, Brandon, Anthony, and Vivian Bell along with 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Grange’s life will be held at Sammy’s Lounge, 301 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing on Thursday, March 24, 2011 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.  Those wishing may make donations to Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte in Grange’s memory.  Arrangements by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.

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2 Messages to “Harold Grange Bell

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Jill Doederlein
March 21, 2011 at 3:29 pm

My thoughts and prayers are with Grange’s family. I first met Grange in 1981 as a naïve 26 year old who hired him as a tour guide for Indian Trails after his retirement. At that time, I didn’t know this would evolve into a lifelong friendship. For many years we would meet for lunch once a week usually at Red Lobster to catch up on everything going on in the travel business. Grange was well traveled even before he began his career as a travel agent and tour guide. I feel fortunate to have learned so much from him.

In the past couple of years we have only had a few visits. In early February he called and wanted to get together for lunch. He suggested Red Lobster for old time sake. Of course I didn’t realize then how special that “last lunch” with Grange was going to be. We love you Grange and will never forget what an impact you had on so many lives.

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Nancy Phillips
February 23, 2018 at 6:21 am

Mr. Bell gave me my first real job when I was 14. He was managing Somerset Beach and Golf Club in Michigan and when my family didn’t renew our membership he eventually had to tell me I couldn’t keep coming there. Soon after he offered me a job in the office and game equipment room that included a free membership. I will never forget his kindness, looking out for a kid in a way that encouraged me and made me feel secure. He was surprised how well I worked and I have never forgotten his sweet gesture.

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