Bob Bell

In a happier place now, Bob left us peacefully at his most favorite time of the year. He leaves behind his treasured sons, Peter (Joanna) and Steven, grandsons Joseph and Jamie (all of the United Kingdom) and the daughter he adored, Jody Urban Bell (Rob Wells) and her mother Laurie Bell of Banff. He will also be lovingly remembered by his sisters Jean (Mike) Salter, children Andrew and Rachel (France), Shirley (Jeff) Baines, children Lucy and Christopher and his brother Peter Tolmie and daughter Kelly (United Kingdom).

A determined young man from Newcastle, England, Bob began apprenticing at the age of 15 years as a cook in the hotel and catering industry. After receiving his certification, he went on to work at some of Britain's finest establishments before setting his sights on Canada.

It was in the spring of 1966 that Bob stepped off the train and started a new life in Banff, Alberta.

Humble beginnings and hard work were what led to his success as the "Consummate Restaurateur". Bob's personality and generosity extended far beyond the doors of Smitty's Restaurant into the lives of his friends and his community. His spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of his family, numerous friends and business associates and those who were lucky enough to have known him.

A Celebration of Bob's Life was held at the Royal Canadian Legion in Banff on Saturday January 16, 2010.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to remember Bob may make donations, in his memory to Alzheimer Society of Calgary, 201 – 222 – 58 Avenue SW, Calgary AB, T2H 2S3 Telephone: (403) 290-0110

A special thank you to Jo and Sharon and all of the other caregivers who looked out for Bob at both Abbeyfield and St. Martha's Place in Banff.

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.