An independent and strong willed man who loved nature and the outdoors
SAUGUS — Charles H. “Chuck” Bell, a resident of Saugus, died at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital on Saturday, December 31, 2022, at age 77.
Charles was born in Melrose on October 28, 1945, one of three children of the late George P. Bell and Margaret (Hughes) Bell. He was raised in Melrose, graduated from Melrose High School, and attended Northeastern University. Chuck was a longtime, dedicated Iron Worker and member of the Ironworkers Union Local #7.
Chuck was a man most comfortable in nature and the outdoors. He enjoyed yearly trips for several weeks at a time to Moosehead Lake in Maine where he loved birding, tracking moose, and especially fishing. He was an avid fisherman and delighted in any body of water, but was most passionate about getting on a boat and going out ocean fishing. From tuna fishing, bass fishing, fly-fishing, and anything in between, Chuck loved it all. Known for his love of adventure and appreciation for nature, he famously traveled by car at age 19 from Melrose to Anchorage, Alaska. He enjoyed the thrill of travel, visiting Mexico, Venezuela, and Aruba, and closer to home enjoyed the intrigue of all international detective shows. Chuck also loved all dogs, especially his beloved (and loud) dog “Scamp.” He loved music from the 1950’s and 60’s, and enjoyed bellowing out the lyrics to songs from Elvis to Conway Twitty to Johnny Preston. Chuck was also a lover of traditional Irish bands, and an avid reader.
A longtime ironworker, Chuck worked throughout the region on large-scale construction projects including the Tip O’Neil Tunnel, Zakim Bridge, One Beacon and Logan Airport. He fondly recalled time spent as a member of the union working on area projects.
A man of contrasts, Chuck was an independent, strong willed guy, but had a gentle side with family, friends and animals. He will be deeply missed, but always lovingly remembered.
Chuck was the devoted father of Richard H. Bell and his fiancé Lindsay Geoffroy of Merrimack, N.H., and Susan C. Bell and her fiancé Jeremy Bratt of Cambridge. Loving partner of the late Catherine “Cathy” (Cimino) Kelly. Beloved brother of Constance Leonard of Rye, N.H., and the late Richard Bell.
Family and friends were kindly invited to gather in honor of Chuck’s life for his funeral Mass at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield celebrated on Thursday, January 5 at 12 noon. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery, Stoneham. For online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
