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 start of a lifelong love story. Dean and Peggy got married on July 4, 1987, blending their last names to become Raeburn-Bell. They enjoyed over 40 years together, building a life full of unwavering partnership and deep love. Dean’s choice to change his name upon marriage, which was not common at the time, showed the quiet feminist values he held throughout his life.
After earning an Honours degree in Sociology from Waterloo University and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario, Dean dedicated himself to teaching. Throughout his career, he worked in many different schools in Grey County, inspiring students from kindergarten to Grade 12 before finally returning to GBSS as a high school teacher. Over decades in the classroom, Dean became a trusted figure for countless students. He was well-respected by colleagues and adored by students and is remembered for his patience, intelligence, humor, and care that he brought each day. His favorite subjects were history, social sciences, and psychology. He retired from GBSS in 2016.
Outside of teaching, Dean was a talented oil painter who loved nature; his artwork showcased a genuine appreciation for the beauty around him. One of Dean’s favorite quotes is “…the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:2).
Above all else, Dean was committed to his family. He was the loving husband of Peggy Raeburn-Bell and proud father to Sydney Blue Raeburn-Power (Gryphon) and Rowan Dean Raeburn-Bell (Kelsey). He also took great joy as a grandfather to August Dean, Louie Gryphon, Hugo Blue and Flora Sydney Raeburn-Power.
Dean is predeceased by his mother Edna Bell (Reay) and father Norman Bell from Silcote Corner; his sister Heather Clarke (Bell); as well as his mother-in-law Mary Lou Raeburn-Gibson (Threndyle) and father-in-law Ian Alexander Raeburn-Gibson from Meaford. Surviving him are his siblings Tony Bell (Lois), Andrew Bell (Jeff), Holly Bell-Sparling (Steven), along with brothers- and sisters-in-law Richard Raeburn-Gibson (Stephanie), Tim Raeburn-Gibson (Kimberley), Susan Raeburn-Cherradi (Abdu).
Dean’s life has been greatly enriched by the love shared with many nieces and nephews. He often mentioned that they – along with his daughter and son – taught him just as much as he taught them.
Dean’s life will be celebrated on Saturday May 23, 2026 at Knox Presbyterian Church in Meaford, Ontario. Visitation will take place from 9:30 until 10:30 a. m., followed by a Celebration of Dean’s Life at 11 o’clock. The Interment will occur at Lakeview Cemetery in Meaford at 12:30 p. m., with coffee, tea, and light lunch served afterward in the fellowship hall at Knox Presbyterian Church.
In lieu of flowers or other expressions of sympathy, donations can be made to Hospice Grey Bruce ‘Chapman House’, Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital or Meaford Hospital Foundation through Ferguson Funeral Home located at 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford ON N4L 1B9 where arrangements have been entrusted.
Donations: Hospice Grey Bruce ‘Chapman House’, Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital or Meaford Hospital Foundation
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