Mr. Ronnie J. Bell

Ronnie Jay Bell was born November 30th, 1977 in Berrien Springs, MI to Gloria (Bell) Thompson and Ronnie Thompson. Ronnie,also known by close family and friends as "Rock," was raised in Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor, MI. He was an intelligent student, who took advanced classes at Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, MI. He also played basketball. His parents were so proud of him while in high school, that they bought him a convertible sports car, which quickly made him "Mr Popularity" among friends. Ronnie went on to study Computer Science at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. He shared his father's passion for technology and innovation. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, video games, sports, and spending time with family and friends. He was THE #1 Detroit Lions Fan. Ronnie spent most of his working career in manufacturing as a fork lift and bobcat operator, and most recently excelled working in rental car sales. Ronnie would tell you his proudest accomplishment has been his role as a father. He shares 4 beautiful daughters with his wife, Ivy of 14 years. Ronnie and Ivy shared a love story which began 19 years ago as high school sweethearts. They married 5 years later and were truly dedicated to the vows they shared. Ronnie always put his family first, which made him an admired Son, Husband, Father, Brother and Friend. Raised as a preacher's son, he maintained a strong faith in God. Ronnie was called home by our Heavenly Father on August 11th, 2014. He was preceded in death by his mother, Gloria Jean Thompson; father, Ronnie Thompson; and brother, DeJuan Bell. Ronnie is survived by: his wife, Ivy Bell; daughters Roneah, Valiah, Sequoia, and Sharona Bell all of Portage, MI; his biological father, Otis Wilburn Sr of Benton Harbor, MI; siblings: Collin Thompson and Desmond Thomson of Kalamazoo, MI; Shawndell Wilburn of Grand Rapids, MI; Todd Clark, Annette Clark-Harris, and Neeia Wilburn of Virgina Beach, VA; Willie Wilburn of Muskegon, MI; Clozette Wilburn of Benton Harbor, MI; Tajia Wilburn of Columbus Ohio; Denyil Wilburn of Indianapolis, IN; and La'Songe Clark-Grantling of Marietta, GA. Also, other relatives and friends.

Mr. Ronnie J. Bell

November 30, 1977 - August 11, 2014