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Third-generation Greenwich resident Ellwood Bella died Sept. 12 at Greenwich Hospital. Bella was the son of Mary Meiko and Daniel Bella. He was 84. His family had deep ties in the community. Bella's father Daniel was a builder in Greenwich and was the nephew of Greenwich High School Principal Andrew Bella.
After high school, Bella enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served as a fireman aboard the aircraft carrier USS Bennington, which was one of the 24 Essex-class air carriers built during World War II. The warship earned three battle stars in the Pacific Theater in 1945.
After his return, Bella worked for AT&T for 41 years. He retired at an early age and spent his retirement enjoying his family, gardening and the Mets. Bella also liked to ski and boat.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Rita Marie Zachar; sons, Dan and Jeff; and two grandchildren. Calling hours for family and friends will be 4 to 7 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, 31 Arch St., Greenwich.
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