April 25, 1921 – May 1, 2018

Mildred “Babe” Bella, 97, died peacefully on May 1, 2018, in St. Joseph, with her three children at her side.  She was born on April 25, 1921, in Tustin, Michigan to Glenn and Estella West. She graduated from Niles High School and was a lifelong resident of Niles. She was a member of St. Marks Catholic Church.  In 1942, she married Victor Bella who preceded her in death on June 6, 1995.

For many years, while raising a family, she worked for Simplicity Pattern Company.  She and Vic enjoyed traveling throughout the United States.  She was a proud member of the TOPS Club (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the local Lapidary (Rock) Club, and enjoyed many weeks camping with friends in Friendship, Indiana during the National Muzzleloaders Convention.

Mildred was also preceded in death by her brothers and sisters; Jesse West, Frederick West, Genevieve Boose and Margaret DeMeulenaere.

She is survived by her children Victor Bella, Jr., Saugatuck, Michigan, Pennie Bella Kelley, St. Joseph and Ramon Bella, Rapid River, Michigan; three loving grandchildren; six great- grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family is hosting a celebration of life from 5 to 8 p.m. June 9, 2018, at her home in Niles. You are invited to share your memories and celebrate her extraordinary life with family and friends.

Interment will occur at 1 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2018, at Fort Custer National Cemetary, Battle Creek, Michigan.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Caring Circles Hospice at Home, and Meals on Wheels of Southwestern Michigan.