Robert William Bell, age 62, of Benton, NY, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family and close friends, following a valiant fight with cancer. Robert was born on December 27, 1963, in Canandaigua, NY, to David and Lenora (Campbell) Bell. Robert is predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his Uncle Mark, and Aunts Mary Lou Marble and Elizabeth Rawleigh. He is survived by his parents; his loving wife of 40 years, Ginger L.A. Bell, at home; his son, Robert Glenn Bell of Penn Yan, NY; sisters, Carrie, Dawn, and Wendy; along with several aunts and uncles; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Robert was a graduate of Penn Yan Academy, Class of 1982. He completed two years of Technical School following graduation and went on to work as a heavy equipment mechanic for Yates County Highway Department, retiring in 2025 after 25 years of devoted service. He was a volunteer firefighter with the Benton Fire Dept., serving as Fire Chief from 2010-2012. Robert was also an avid antique Ford enthusiast and was the proud owner of a 1967 Ford Mustang.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 1-4 PM at the Benton Volunteer Fire Department, 932 State Route 14A, Penn Yan, NY 14527. Memorial contributions may also be made to the Benton Volunteer Fire Department.