Bruce MacMillan Bell

bruce bell

February 4, 1963 ~ June 23, 2020

Born in: New Haven, CT
Resided in: Hamden, CT

Bruce MacMillan Bell of Hamden passed away on June 23, 2020 at Yale-New Haven Hospital after a long struggle with pneumonia. Bruce was the beloved son of Richard G. and Anne W. Bell of Hamden. He is survived by his parents and by his sister, Allison Bell of Whately, Massachusetts, and his brother, Richard Bell Jr. of Anchorage, Alaska.
Bruce was born at Yale-New Haven in 1963. In his youth he was a skillful soccer player and gifted downhill skier. He delighted in outdoor activities: hiking in the Adirondacks, fly fishing for trout, and extended horseback trips in the wilderness areas of Colorado and Montana with members of his family. He had many friends and a successful start in school. However, his early promise was crushed when he was stricken with schizophrenia in 1979, at the age of 16. He courageously fought this awful scourge for the rest of his life, even to the end.
The family is grateful for the care and treatment he received from the Hamden Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, his last residence. Sincere thanks are due to the nurses and medical staff of Yale-New Haven’s St. Raphael campus for their compassionate care, concern and support during Bruce’s last days.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to BHcare, 127 Washington Avenue, North Haven, CT 06473. Funeral arrangements will be private and in care of Beecher & Bennett, 2300 Whitney Avenue, Hamden.

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  1. Dick and Anne, what an incredible sadness! A relief perhaps, but most likely not. We can not imagine the extent of your grief! One interpretation of the Gospel assures us that each plate will not be loaded with more than we can endure! Most likely a fantasy. You remain high in our professional and personal regards and long enduring friendship. In testimony to that impact, I just mentioned Dick’s name on Thursday, in a very interesting, contemporary matter, involving, of course, prudent corporate behavior. Once shaped by an intellectually gifted mentor, it’s tough to escape the mold! Fondest regards, Annemarie and Carl Lindskog

  2. I worked with Bruce for 11 years and have such fond memories of him. He was animated and bright and could handle chaotic situations when no one else knew what to do.
    I was reminded of a time at a hockey game with Bruce. He was one of the crowd, singing and cheering and having the time of his life.
    I hadn’t seen Bruce for several years but he is one I will not forget.
    My sincerest condolences. May he Rest In Peace.

  3. Bruce was a part of my group of friends from elementary thru high school. I remember taking him to a concert at Oakdale, I think it was B.B. King. We had a great time. He was a good friend. Although I hadn’t seen him in years, I will always remember the good times together. My sincerest condolences to the Bell family

  4. My deepest sympathies to you and Anne on your loss. I hope all the wonderful memories of your son will see you through this impossibly difficult time.
    We miss you!

  5. So sorry to hear about Bruce. I went to Ridge Rd school with him and have lots of fond memories. Sending your family prayers and love, so sorry for your loss.

  6. I am so sorry to hear about Bruce. I have lots of good memories our time in the Ridgewood Ave. neighborhood and from Ridge Road ES. May he rest in peace and your family find peace in happy memories.

  7. I grew up with Bruce and the Bell family and have very happy memories from those early
    years. I am sorry to say we lost touch after Bruce’s diagnosis. Bruce was a great friend and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my friend.


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