"Vale! Roger, your edges were always straight. You taught me how to iron in creases. We love you so much, Dad.
Arohanui ki a koe, hoa rangatira, taku tau."
- A celebration in flannel and/or fabulous clothing will be held in Hope and Sons Chapel, 523 Andersons Bay Road, at 2:00pm, on Thursday, June 25, followed by private cremation. Messages can be left and livestream can be found on Roger's page below.
Service details
The service was held on 25 Jun 2026.
Live stream
LivestreamMessages
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I knew Roger in Christchurch during the early 1980s. He was an interesting young man. I was sorry to hear he passed away.
I'm sorry not to be there. Love to you all.
Wish we could be there in person today to hug you, grieve with you and make sure there was plenty of Food for everyone. We love you all, and love Roger. What a joy it has been to be able to spend time with him over the last few years. He always made us feel welcome and like dear friends and family even when we were taking over the house. And his jokes. I will never forget them.
Dear Rachel and family , I am deeply saddened to hear of Roger’s sudden passing. I had the privilege of getting to know Roger at our Chinese language group and over the occasionally beer at the Duke of Wellington ( post class) Walking or running with my dogs I might receive a wave from the “ bus” driver . I will miss Roger’s company . Funny, knowledgeable, intelligent and a great raconteur . Peace be with you
Kua hinga te tōtara i te Waonui a Tāne. E taku hoa, ka tirohia e au tō whetū ina rere te waka o Matariki i te rangi. Moe mai rā. (A tōtara tree has fallen in the great forest of Tāne. My friend, I will look for your star when the canoe of Matariki flies in the sky.)
Dear Roger’s family, Please accept my deepest condolences. Roger ( 钟大兵)was a wonderful part of our Chinese Corner. I will never forget how patiently we practiced languages together and the laughs we shared. His kindness and warmth touched us all. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you rest in peace. 感谢生命中曾有这段交集,愿你在天堂安息,一路走好!” 中文角的朋友们
I was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of my old friend Roger Bell. We were at Kaiapoi High School together (where we did not get on) but reconnected later at a Taekwondo class in Christchurch. I enjoyed Roger's company impressed with his wide range of interests including history, Japanese culture and language, cooking and music. I am really sorry that we lost touch over the last few years. My condolences to Rachael and the family.
Roger you will be sadly missed i remember the 1st time i ever hopped on your bus you were so polite and for the last 10 years it was great knowing you all the laughs and conversations we had over the last decade it was a blast Roger you will be missed by all r.i.p vale Roger Norman Bell
Rachel, I'm so sorry to hear your very sad news that you have lost Roger. What a shock. He was always such a character when he came into the Pharmacy and it was fun to share a bit of banter with him. Since retiring I have had the pleasure to be a passenger on his bus a few times and we had chats on there too, in which he promised to get me there safely. My thoughts go to you and your family at this devastating time. Marg (ex Forbury Pharmacy)
Roger was a cherished part of our Baker Street memories for 18 years. Roger was always there for a chat over the fence, often accompanied by some gardening advice, a random story or a discussion about life in general, those conversations became a familiar part of neighbourhood life. The news of his passing has come as a great shock and sadness. We are grateful for the friendship, kindness, and memories Roger leaves behind. Our thoughts are with you Rach, Becky, Jimmy & T Rest in peace, Roger.
Rachael my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I was so shocked when Andrea rang me from Melbourne and told me you sad news. Myself & my family enjoyed very much Roger and your company in Rotorua in 2022. Roger far too young to go just so sad. My love to you all. Anne Hale❤️