Raeburn-Bell, Dean
Dean Raeburn-Bell of Meaford Ontario passed away peacefully on Tuesday May 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, after a courageous battle with cancer and receiving MAID at Chapman House Hospice in Owen Sound.
Norman ‘Dean’ was born on July 9, 1963 in Meaford, Ontario. He attended Georgian Bay Secondary School (GBSS), where he met Peggy Raeburn-Gibson as a Grade 12 student – the beginning of a lifelong love story. Dean and Peggy married July 4, 1987, and they combined their last names to become Raeburn-Bell. They have shared over 40 years together and built a life based on unwavering partnership and steadfast love. Dean’s decision to change his name upon marriage, uncommon at the time, reflected the quiet feminist values he carried through his life.
After earning an Honours degree in Sociology from Waterloo University and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario, Dean devoted his life to teaching. Over his career, he taught in many different schools in Grey County, inspiring generations from kindergarten to Grade 12, before ultimately returning to GBSS as a high school teacher. Over decades in the classroom, Dean became a trusted presence in the lives of countless students. He was deeply respected by colleagues, cherished by students, and remembered for the patience, intelligence, humour, and care he brought to his work each day. Dean’s best-loved subjects were history, social sciences, and psychology. He retired from GBSS in 2016.
Outside of the classroom, Dean was a gifted oil painter and lover of nature, his paintings reflecting a profound appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. Dean’s favourite quotation is “…the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:2).
Above all else, Dean was devoted to his family. He was the beloved husband of Peggy Raeburn-Bell, proud father of Sydney Blue Raeburn-Power (Gryphon) and Rowan Dean Raeburn-Bell (Kelsey) and the beaming and adoring grandfather of August Dean, Louie Gryphon, Hugo Blue and Flora Sydney Raeburn-Power.
Dean is predeceased by his mother Edna Bell (Reay) and father Norman Bell of Silcote Corner; his sister Heather Clarke (Bell); his mother-in-law Mary Lou Raeburn-Gibson (Threndyle) and father-in-law Ian Alexander Raeburn-Gibson of Meaford. He is survived by his siblings Tony Bell (Lois), Andrew Bell (Jeff) and Holly Bell-Sparling (Steven), and by his brothers- and sister in-law Richard Raeburn-Gibson (Stephanie), Tim Raeburn-Gibson (Kimberley) and Susan Raeburn-Cherradi (Abdu).
Dean’s life has been tremendously enriched by the love he shared with many nieces and nephews. He often said that they – along with his daughter and son – taught him at least as much as he taught them.
Dean’s life will be celebrated on Saturday May 23, 2026 at Knox Presbyterian Church in Meaford, Ontario. A visitation will be held from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Dean’s Life at 11 o’clock. The Interment will take place at 12:30 p.m. at Lakeview Cemetery in Meaford, with a coffee, tea and a light luncheon to follow in the fellowship hall at Knox Presbyterian Church.
As your expression of sympathy, donations to Hospice Grey Bruce ‘Chapman House’, Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital or Meaford Hospital Foundation can be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted.
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Make a donation in memory of Dean Raeburn-Bell
Donations: Hospice Grey Bruce ‘Chapman House’, Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital or Meaford Hospital FoundationDonate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
So sorry to hear of Dean’s passing Peggy. Our thoughts are with you and the family at this sad time.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Mr Raeburn-Bell taught me music when I was at Normanby Community School in Ayton, although I think he was a supply teacher at the time… that would be the late 80s. He was always a kind, patient man, and I can remember thinking it was too bad I didn’t have him as a teacher for more subjects. I’m happy for him that he had such a fulfilling life with his family, work and hobbies. My condolences to the family.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Dean and Peggy were my friends at GBSS. I am so very sorry to learn that Dean has passed. He is fondly remembered as a gentle and kind soul with a great sense of humour. My sincere condolences to Peggy and their children and of course the rest of the family.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Mr. Raeburn-Bell was one of my favourite Highschool teachers at GBSS and shaped my trajectory through university and life. Rest in peace and my condolences to his family and friends.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
i’m so saddened to hear of Dean’s passing.He was always so upbeat with a great smile even while carrying a huge load.My condolences to Peggy and all the Raeburn- Gibson clan.He will be missed by all that knew him for his smile and perserverance over the last few years and his love of family, especially the little ones .rest in peace Dean you have earned it.Don and Sheila Doner
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Dean’s passing. I guess I somehow hoped we’d see each other again as the old friends we were from so many years ago. He’ll always have a warm place in my heart and a strong presence in memories of my years at GBSS. Condolences to you Peggy and your family from both my husband John and I. And, I extent that to Andrew too, who shares some of those memories.
When we go to see Guys and Dolls at Stratford next month I will definitely be thinking of you two.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
So incredibly sorry to learn of Dean’s passing. He was a special soul and always had a smile for everyone.
He will be missed.
Thinking of the family at this difficult time.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
So very sorry to hear that Dean has passed. I have great memories spending time with him and Peggy in high school and afterwards. Such a kind man! He lived his life very well, just wish he had longer to be with his family and friends. Peggy, my sincere condolences to you and your family.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy, Sydney, Rowan and family,
I am sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. I will always remember him for his big smile and the clicking of his shoes as he was walking down the hall of Georgian Bay SS. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sherri and Mike Page
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
I’m so sorry to hear of Dean’s death. My deepest sympathies Peggy to you and your families. I value the wonderful times we had together in high school and remember when Peggy and Dean started their wonderful journey together as a couple. Dean was a little ahead of the times (in a very good way) and lived his values. I can’t think of anyone more suited to become a teacher and am sure there are many students who count themselves lucky to have had him in their lives.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
oh Peggy. I am so sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. He was such a wonderful man and a true inspiration to so many young students. He will be missed dearly by so many. Cherish your memories of the last 40 years. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy (and family), I was so sorry to hear about Dean’s passing. We remember him so fondly from our visits to Meaford, and will be praying for you all.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
My dear Peggy, so sad to hear of dean’s passing. He fought a good fight. He will be missed by many.
Rest now my friend
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy and family. Cam and I are so very sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. Dean was always a truly kind and gentile person in highschool. His smile was magic! I know his wonderful qualities will live on through his children s and his grandchildren. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy and Family,
My deepest condolences to you on the passing of Dean. May he rest in peace
Janelle Shakell
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
To the Bell family
In the beauty of memories left behind
In the gifts of wisdom shared
Those we love live on always
To Peggy and family sincere sympathy on the passing Of Dean
We were neighbors with Dean’s family for many years.
A beautiful tribute to Dean. Well done.
Cahoon Family
Leone, Brenda, Roy & Lorne and families
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
We were so sad to hear about the passing of Dean. He was just a thoroughly good man who brought so much integrity and genuine kindness into the world each day. We always admired his quiet grace and how he treated his students, colleagues and friends with such respect. He was someone of true character whose warmth and generosity will be missed by the many lives he touched.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Very sorry to hear about the loss of Mr. Raeburn-bell. As a struggling “new student” to GBSS in Gr 10, Mr. RB’s class was always a safe space where I felt like I wasn’t a stranger. He had that welcoming smile that made me feel like I’d known him for years. It made a big impact on me and I’ll always remember and cherish him for that.
Love and hugs to the family.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy and Family, I am also fondly remembering our high school memories at GBSS and Dean’s kind smile and generous patience always. So sorry for your loss and sadness at this time.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Our condolences to the family on your loss.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy and family, I was most fortunate to have worked with Dean. He painted wonderful sets for VBC. He played the role of Innkeeper for The First Christmas Story and participated in many liturgical dramas for me. Such a kind and gentle man: always willing to give of his time. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Barb Sharp
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy, I still remember sitting in an English class listening to the story pf why and how you and Dean decided to combine last names. Your story played a foundational role for me in understanding what equal, compassionate and loving relationships could look like. I am forever grateful to you and Dean for your generosity in sharing your story and living in such a loving way. Sending love and condolences to you and your family.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Peggy and family. So so sorry to hear of Dean’s passing. Our sincere condolences. He will be missed by all who knew him. Sending thoughts and prayers to you and all your family.
Ellie and Merv Smith
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Dear Peggy, Sydney, Rowan, and all family,
My sincere condolences on Dean’s passing. His teaching made a significant impact on me as a young historian; though Peggy had me convinced I would be an English scholar, Dean’s enthusiasm for the world and visions of kindness have been driving forces of my career as a historian. My thoughts and love are with you all and with him.
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Peggy so sad to hear this news.my heart breaks for you & your family. Dean was a wonderful man . Treasure those memories. Gale Rice
Thursday, May 21, 2026
I am so sorry to hear of Dean’s death. He was such a delight to know. He had a quiet wisdom about him and his smile could diffuse any situation. My heart goes out to all his family
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Dear Peggy, Sydney, Rowan & families
I am so sad to read of Dean’s passing. He fought cancer courageously for so many years, and I am glad that if it couldn’t be beat, he was able to go peacefully on his terms with the assistance of MAID. It will be difficult for all of you to go on without him. However, he is in your hearts and minds and the love he had for all of you will carry you through. The many cherished memories you have made over the years will ease your grief in time. I will personally remember Dean’s smile, his quiet and kind manner, his professionalism and how much he cared about his students’ success and their achievements. Sending a big hug to all of you.
Sandi xo
Thursday, May 21, 2026
There are teachers who leave a massive impact on their students’ lives and Mr. Raeburn-Bell was one of them. It speaks volumes to who he was as a person that I still remember his genuine kindness, gentle nature, and incredible sense of humour almost 20 years later. He inspired a lifelong passion for psychology in me and more importantly, taught a generation of young men that it was okay to be feminist and that we have responsibility to stand with the women in our lives. I feel very fortunate to have had such a genuinely cool role model in my life during my formative years. This is devastating news. I’m sending all my love to Peggy, Sydney, and Rowan.
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Peggy & family- Dean and I had many shared times from kindergarten to grade 13, and in the Irish Block and Woodford community. He was a great person whose impact on others will be felt for many years to come. Holding you and yours close in our thoughts at this sad time
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Dear Peggy and family, I am so saddened to learn of Dean’s passing. Though we worked together for only a short time at Grey Highlands, both you and Dean have left an indelible mark in my heart. Rest in peace, Dean.
With sincerest condolences,
Nora McCaffrey
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Dear Peggy, Sydney , Rowan and families
Thinking of all of you at this very sad time. Dean was such a talented and dedicated teacher who truly cared for his students. I was fortunate to support students in his Grade 10 History class and he really had the gift of making History come alive; he had the students design WW2 war zones using plastercine and toy soldiers. He always had such a great smile that showed his capacity for caring and his genuine kindness. I also remember that he was rather famous when he first started teaching at GBSS; everyone talked about his long ponytail ! I’m so thankful he had the love of his family and especially his 4 grandchildren to bring him joy while he was courageously battling his illness. Dean’s legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren. Peggy, Sydney and Rowan your family, your faith and your friends will get you through.
Keeping you close in my heart
Jennifer
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Peggy, Sydney , Rowan and families
We have such wonderful memories of Dean from many years ago when the kids were young.
Thinking of you all now and holding you close to our hearts.
With deepest condolences,
Jill and Todd Robinson
Thursday, May 21, 2026
My condolences to Peggy, Sidney, Rowan and the rest of the family.
I’m so saddened to hear about Dean’s passing. But my heart is full from having enjoyed Dean as a wonderful neighbour and more importantly his legacy and lasting impact Dean made as an incredible teacher.
My love and hugs,
Denise McCarl
Thursday, May 21, 2026
My deepest sympathy Peggy and family. Dean was a lovely soul and he’ll be missed by many.
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Our deepest sympathy to Peggy and family. Dean will be remembered for his warm smile and kind heart.
Ron and Louise Lipsett
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Peggy and family, so sorry to learn of Dean’s passing. He was such a fun, dedicated teacher. I will always remember our chats in the English office at GHSS, you two were such an awesome addition to the school. I enjoyed running into you both at GBSS when I supply taught there. Such a warm friendly couple. Hard to believe your children are grown up now. Know you are in my thoughts.
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Peggy and family i was so saddened to hear of Dean’s passing such a great person always a conversationalist when we passed in the halls when I worked at GBSS and you also and seeing you both at the beach for a swim my sincere condolences to you be strong cherish those golden memories
Friday, May 22, 2026
Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. So sorry for your loss.
Friday, May 22, 2026
Very saddened to learn of Dean’s passing. My condolences to Peggy and family and to all family and friends of Dean.
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Dean set the bar high for himself and those around him. I felt so lucky to call him a colleague and friend. He just always seemed to have the right thing to say and was a role model for so many. This is such a loss and I hope Peggy and family can hold on to the legacy of Dean. The guy holding the room together with laughter, integrity and style. He made everyone around him a bit better. Countless students were lucky to have had him as their teacher. In a discussion with a friend they said “he was just good at everything”…so true. Thinking of you all.
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Dean will be greatly missed. May it bring you some comfort knowing that you are surrounded by people who love and care about your family.
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Deepest condolences to all of Dean’s family.
He was a force of good in the world. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Sincerely,
Erica Ferguson
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Ms.Raeburn-bell
Wishing you comfort and peace in the days ahead. You were our English teacher at Gbss and while we never had Mr. Raeburn bell class we certainly remember you both for your kindness as teachers.
Emily and Karen Lemon
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Peggy, I am so sorry to hear of Dean’s death. He indeed was a wonderful man and I admired you both so much. I do believe Peggy that you taught my son Josh. Although retired, I have many fond memories of Meaford and the wonderful people I had the privilege of knowing while I was there as a family physician. Your memories of your life with Dean will sustain you and your children will always be a reminder of his essence.
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Peggy, it has been a pleasure to journey with you and Dean over the past few years. May he rest in peace and rise in glory and be surrounded by the amazing colours he now sees to paint as his gifts allow. My thoughts are with you all at this time.
Sunday, May 24, 2026
I am so sorry about the passing of Dean. He was such a great teacher and always wanted the best for his students. I remember him passing by in the hallway every morning greeting me with a smile on his face. He definitely lit up every room he walked into. He will be greatly missed.
Sending my love and prayers to Peggy and family.
Lexi Goudy
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Dear Peggy and family. The world has lost a treasure. Dean was so kind, smart, dedicated and caring. He was a true professional and a natural gift to teaching. I think the same of you Peggy, and I know you will rely on your beautiful family and wonderful memories to carry you forward. Thinking of all of you at this very sad time. Sending love and hugs.
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Dear Peggy and family,
Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss of Dean – Mr. Raeburn-Bell.
He will be remembered for his kindness and openness . His ‘trusted presence’ was certainly felt and appreciated.
Thankful for him as a teacher who saw with a clear heart.
May your memories sustain you.
Katarina and Len Buckland
Monday, May 25, 2026
My sincere sympathy to each member of Dean’s family at this difficult time. What a great educator and community man.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Thinking of the family during this difficult time. I had the pleasure of having him as a teacher and he was one of those teachers who always went the extra mile for his students.
Dean will truly be missed by all who knew him.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
I fondly recall having many conversations with Dean as he presented ideas about how we could make things better for the students and staff at GBSS. Dean was a very thoughtful, caring, and inspiring person. He positively impacted so many lives. My thoughts and sympathies are with all of you during this difficult time.
Take good care.
Lori Wilder
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Dean’s spirit touched so many people in the most positive way. His life & his energy lives on in the memories he has left with us. Thank you Dean.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Mr. Raeburn-Bell was an incredible teacher. His kindness, patience, rigour of thought, clarity of instruction, and moral compass set a steady course for so many students to follow and he will continue to inspire. I still take all my notes in the style that he wrote on the chalkboard so I think of him often and will remember him fondly. My sincerest condolences.
Sincerely,
Tom
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
I managed to screw up the attendance one year for the provincial literacy test. A significant mistake, and one of those “you only had 1 job” moments. Instead of face-palming or rolling his eyes Dean said “No worries, I’ll find a way to fix it.” And he did. It’s what he always did. 🙂
I feel blessed I got meet Dean and watch how he interacted with others. Very sorry for your loss.
Saturday, May 30, 2026
Dear Ms. Raeburn-Bell,
My deepest condolences for your loss. To lose a life partner must be incredibly devastating . You have touch the hearts and minds of some many in the community, myself included, and I sincerely hope this outpouring of support helps you in this very difficult time.