Obituaries

Obituary - Walter E. Bell

Published April 21, 2026

Obituary

Walter E. Bell 76 of Newport News, Virginia went to his Heavenly home on April 9, 2026, following a long illness. He was born on September 4,1949 to Robert and Helen Bell of Cobleskill. He graduated from Cobleskill Central School in 1969. He spent most of his life in Cobleskill and when he retired moved to VA, to be nearer to his children and grandchildren. He loved and found joy working with his hands, especially woodworking. He made many special projects for his family and friends to enjoy. He was a volunteer Fireman for the Cobleskill Fire Dept, and a Scout Master for the locaI Boy scout troop in Cobleskill in the 1970’s. He had many and varied jobs throughout Schoharie County with the last being his favorite. He enjoyed and loved driving buses for The Schoharie County Public Transportation. He loved interacting with the patrons who rode his bus. He retired in 2013 and moved to VA. He spent the rest of his time puttering with his projects and enjoying his family. 

He was predeceased by both his parents, and his Ex-wife Margaret (Babey) Bell. He is survived by his daughter Michelle (Scott) Fortin of Newport News, VA. Grandson Andrew (Lindsey) Fortin- great grandsons Colton and Noah, and grandson Orin Ladlee also of Newport News VA. Son Robert (Patty) Bell of Williamsburg, VA. Grandsons Shane, Austin, Dustin, and Ryan, great-grandson Sean. His sisters Suzanne (Bruce) Stevens of Warnerville, and Dorothea (James) Coleman of Browns Mills, N.J. Many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

Per his wishes he was cremated and his ashes will be cared for by his family. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 6 from 2 to 4 pm at the Warnerville Methodist church. All are welcome to help us celebrate his life.



Published April 21, 2026 — Submitted by Rob Panico