[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 57 (Wednesday, March 29, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E273-E274]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. BOB BELL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 29, 2023

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
lasting contributions of Mr. Robert ``Bob'' Bell. Passing away at the 
age of 82, Mr. Bell leaves behind an indelible legacy of service to his 
country and the Winters community.
  Born in Missouri in 1940, Mr. Bell spent his early years learning to 
play the piano, trumpet, and bass, cultivating what would become a 
lifelong love for music. His passion for the arts continued into 
adulthood and he played the bass for over 60 years.
  After graduating from high school, Mr. Bell joined the Air Force, 
bravely serving our country in Europe and Southeast Asia. Regardless of 
where he was stationed, Mr. Bell found opportunities to continue 
practicing music and played in jazz groups around the world, bringing 
joy and laughter to international audiences.
  Following his service in the Air Force, Mr. Bell joined Golden 1 
Credit Union, beginning a three-decade-long career strengthening the 
financial well-being of California residents. Mr. Bell's financial 
expertise and knowledge of economic planning significantly advanced the 
expansion and success of Golden 1 Credit Union. His crucial 
contributions and indispensable leadership played a vital role in 
helping Golden 1 Credit Union open 63 new branches and foster the 
financial stability of tens of thousands of Californians.
  Mr. Bell's commitment to California was not only expressed through 
his tenure with Golden 1 Credit Union, but also through his public 
service to the City of Winters. He served on the Winters Fire 
Department Commissioner Board for 16 years, working tirelessly to 
prepare Winters for any emergency and ensure the health and safety of 
all Winters residents. Mr. Bell also served on the Winters Senior 
Foundation Board, valiantly advocating for seniors and playing an 
instrumental role in enhancing the quality of life for Winters seniors.
  In addition to his community leadership, Mr. Bell also exemplified 
the spirit of altruism and innovation in all areas of his life. For 30 
years, Mr. Bell was an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater 
Davis, significantly advancing efforts to identify and address unmet 
needs in the Yolo County community. His vital work serving his 
community has helped provide the resources and services necessary to 
allow all Yolo County residents to thrive.
  Mr. Bell will be remembered not only for his decades of service to 
the Winters community, but also for his genuine spirit of kindness and 
compassion. He impacted the lives of countless members of his community 
and his steadfast leadership, constant smile, and patient mentorship 
undeniably enhanced the lives of his fellow Yolo County residents.
  Mr. Bell's enduring spirit will live on in his wife, three children, 
10 grandchildren, and the community he dedicated his life to serving. I 
would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Mr. Bell's loved ones. I 
know that they, along with the people of Yolo County, join me in 
celebrating his life and legacy.

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