Elmer W. Bell, 76 of Cochranton died suddenly Thursday, October 12, 2017, at UPMC Hamot in Erie.

Born, June 24, 1941, in Meadville, he was the son of Wayne and Ruby Lincoln Bell.

He married Helen M. Guth on June 24, 1961, and she survives.

He graduated from Cochranton High School in 1959 and for over 24 years was a dairy farmer in Deckards. He drove bus for Girardat Transportation and also was a truck driver for Rockwell and Spauldings.

Elmer was a friendly man but also avoided the crowds. He enjoyed restoring old cars, lawnmowers, and helping others. One of his greatest enjoyments was teasing his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his wife of 56 years, Elmer is survived by his children Randal R. Bell and his wife Diane, Cynthia K. Bell, and David E. Bell and his wife Lori all of Cochranton. Two sisters, Nancy Lynn and her husband Harold of Cochranton and Gail Jones and her husband Ted of Erie, and a brother Gilbert Bell of Cochranton. Eight grandchildren, Holly Hauck, Brandon Hauck and his wife Alicia, Stephanie Ward and her husband Chris, Amy Hostetler and her husband Mike, Katelyn, David, Caleb and Emma Pennington; three great-grandchildren, Faith and Chelsea Fairfield and Blakely Hostetler and expecting two more in 2018.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son-in-law, Mark Hauck.

As per Elmer’s wishes, there will be no calling hours.

A private service will be held for the family at the DICKSON FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, INC., 123 S. Franklin St., Cochranton on Monday with the Rev. Frank Weingard of the Deckards United Methodist church, officiating.

Interment will be in the Cochranton Cemetery.

The family asks that memorial contributions be made in Elmer’s name to the Cochranton 4H C/O, Elaine Duncan, 22610 Freyermuth Rd., Meadville, PA 16335.