Charles Bell Obituary

Charles E. Bell, 81, of Plainfield, formerly of Kalamazoo, MI, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024. He was born on April 27, 1943 in Detroit, MI to the late Leslie and Ethel Bell. Charles received his Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan and his MBA from Western Michigan University. He retired as the Corporate Vice President of Engineering and Maintenance from Upjohn after 31 years of service. Charles belonged to the International Association of Torch Clubs (MI), Board of Director Greater Kalamazoo United Way (MI), Kalamazoo County American Red Cross (MI), Comstock School Board (MI), KVISD School Board (MI), National Society of Professional Engineers, Michigan Society of Professional Engineers-Southwestern Chapter Board (MI), Kalamazoo County Chamber of Commerce Board (MI), Upjohn Award (MI), Upjohn Volunteer of the Year (MI), Alpha Chi Sigma Fraternity (MI), Ford Motor Scholarship (MI) Michigan High School Athletic Association-Football Official (MI), American Society for Engineering Management, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, American Institute of Plant Engineers, Kalamazoo Forum (MI), Engineering Section - Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (MI), International Facility Management Association, Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (MI), Eastwood Church of God Treasurer and Sunday School Teacher (MI) and a member of Westlake Church (IN). He enjoyed flying his own plane, golfing, traveling, camping, going on cruises, visiting Disney and Universal Parks, reading, Bible study and attending grandchildren's sporting events such as dance, cheer, soccer, tennis and golf. Funeral services will be on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 1:00 pm in Westlake Church (6696 Rockville Road, IN 46214) where friends may visit from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm. Survivors include his loving wife, Diane Bell, whom he met in the 8th grade and married on May 16, 1964; daughter, Janet (Rob) Zolcak; sons, Steve and David Bell; brother, Dale (Bonnie) Bell; sister, Joyce (Harold) Domke; grandchildren, Dr. Amanda (Jake) Martinez, Sarah (Wil) Bailey, Evan (Laura) Zolcak, Joshua (Jordan) Bell and Colin Bell; great grandchild, Eleanor Martinez. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Westlake Church of God, or the American Heart Association.