David N. Bell

David N. Bell, 74, of Palm Coast, FL and Columbia, CT., passed away on Saturday July 23, 2011 at his home in Columbia after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Feb. 20, 1937 son of the late Norman and Laura Bell. David was a 1955 graduate of Manchester High School where he earned medals in swimming and track. In 1956 he entered the Pratt & Whitney apprentice program and graduated in 1958 with a 4.5 average. Transferring to Pratt facilities in Florida in 1959, he became supervisor in 1964, working a total of ten years for the company. In 1966 he became a sales representative for Bachan Aerospace and eventually became a partner in the business as sales manager. He was named Boss of The Year in 1967 by ABWA of Pompano. In 1970 he bought out his partners in the company now known as Pompano Manufacturing and sold the business in 1978 to return to CT. In 1981 Dave started Columbia Manufacturing with eleven employees and his wisdom, knowledge, understanding and superior qualities as a business man. The company grew to one hundred forty employees and became the success it is today. Dave is survived by his wife of twelve years Sharon, four children by his first wife Judith, Dave Bell Jr. of Mansfield, Barbara Vajnar of Lebanon, Joyce Baker of Columbia, and Kimberly Bell of Mansfield; stepdaughter Jennifer Williams of Mansfield, stepson Derek Santa Lucia of Columbia, fifteen grandchildren, five great grandchildren and his faithful companions, Polly and Charlie. In addition to Dave's parents, he was predeceased by brothers Bruce and Ronald Bell. Dave had many interests, most important being his passion for motorcycles and touring the United States trying the find the more interesting back roads; and his love for the game of golf having some of his best laughs with golf partners T.C., Gary and Pat. The family wishes to thank the special team of nurses that took care of Dave while on hospice care and the volunteers that came to help out. His family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday July 26th between 5:00 and 8:00pm at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic, CT. A graveside service for family and close friends will be held on Wednesday July 27th at 10:00am in West St. Cemetery, Lake Rd., Columbia, CT. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests memorial donations to Flagler Humane Society, One Shelter Dr., Palm Coast, FL. 32137. For online memorial guestbook and directions to the funeral home, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .