……….
Posted Mar 6, 2026 | 10:29 AM
MARGARET ALICE BELL
Peacefully at Belleville General Hospital in her 101st year on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, following a brief illness. Margaret was predeceased by her husband Gordie and sons Randy (Donna) and Alexander. She was also predeceased by her parents Harold and Alice Walker, along with siblings Dick (Betty) and Molly (Eldon). She is survived by her daughter Lou Anne Scott (Russell) and son Bruce (Lois), grandchildren Norris (Meg) and Rob (Lisa) Scott, Cameron (Kristina) and Lauren Bell, along with great-grandsons Bo and Remy. Margaret was born and raised on the family farm at MacDonald, MB. She was educated in Macdonald and Portage la Prairie. She trained as a stenographer and then went to Washington D.C to work for a commander with the British Royal Navy. Upon returning to Portage, she married Gordie and the couple embarked on a nearly two-decade long odyssey around North American, playing hockey in 14 different cities. The tour ended in Belleville, culminating in a world championship with the McFarland hockey club. While Belleville was never the end goal, Marg and Gordie decided to settle in the Friendly City to raise their family. It didn’t take Margaret long to fit into the community where she would spend many years transporting not only her kids, but many from the neighbourhood to various sporting events. She relinquished her role as one of the city’s oldest volunteers in August 2025, retiring from the Opportunity Shop Hospital Auxiliary after 62 years. On January 17, Margaret joined the Century Club, celebrating her 100th birthday with many friends and local dignitaries. An open house will be held to celebrate Marg’s life Tuesday, March 10 at Steele Funeral Home, 30 Moira Street West, Belleville (613-968-2273) from 2 – 5 p.m. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, for those inclined donations to the Belleville General Auxiliary would be greatly appreciated. The family is grateful for the exceptional and compassionate care from Hastings – Quinte Paramedic Services, BGH Emergency Dept. and the staff on Quinte 4. Thank you to Drs. Bolton, Morin and Azizy.