Michael Bell Sr.

Michael J. Bell, Sr., 58, of Sorento, died Thursday, Feb. 18, 2010 at 2:57 p.m. at his home.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 23 from 6-8 p.m. at Perfetti Funeral Home in Sorento with Masonic rites conducted at 7:45 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Robert Carter officiating. Burial will follow at Sunnyside Cemetery, Sorento.

He was born May 2, 1951 at Gideon, MO, the son of A.J. and Louise (Miller) Bell. He married Gail Erin Gaines on July 31, 1971 at Washington Park; she preceded him in death on May 8, 2008. His parents and granddaughter, Kora Rae also preceded him in death.

He was employed as a Correctional Officer at Vandalia Correctional Center for four years and with Graham Correctional Center for five and a half years. A member of Masonic Lodge 861, Reno Baptist Church and the Shriners, he was also assistant scout leader with Boy Scout Troop 99.

Survivors include sons, Michael J. (wife Lisa) Bell Jr. of Coffeen and Quincy (companion Lesley Watson) Bell of Sorento; five grandchildren, Elizabeth, Jessica, Melissa, Kaleb and Ziek; three brothers, Ronnie (wife Maryann) Bell of Glen Carbon, Jerry (wife Wanda) Bell of Maryville, and Bruce Bornette of Granite City; one sister, Cindy (husband Skip) Wise of Illinois; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the family of Michael J. Bell Sr.