Engineering community mourns ex-Stirling CEO Gordon Bell

___________________

Friends and family in Uganda and the UK are mourning the passing of Gordon Bell, an 81-year-old civil engineer who spent much of his life in Uganda. Bell passed away peacefully in the UK on Monday, May 5, 2025, following complications from multiple strokes.

Bell held a prominent career in Uganda’s civil engineering sector, notably serving as the chief executive officer of Stirling Civil Engineering.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was deeply involved in cultural life, particularly through his passion for sailing and Scottish country dancing.

He was a long-standing member and former chieftain of the Caledonian Society of Uganda, where he not only danced but also taught and led others in celebrating Scottish heritage.

His wife, Margaret Mackenzie Bell, confirmed his passing. "It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Gordon died peacefully, with our children Corrie and Iona and myself by his side," she said.

Funeral details

Bell’s funeral will take place on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 1:00pm at The Woodland Chapel, Bluebell Cemetery, Halstead, Kent TN14 7AE (near Sevenoaks, just off the M25).

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited for a drink and meal at The Plough at Leigh, Hildenborough, TN11 9AJ, about a 30-minute drive from the cemetery.

The family has requested guests to wear smart-casual attire, with kilts, tartan, and national dress encouraged. As the ceremony will be held outdoors under shelter, guests are advised to dress for the weather and bring umbrellas in case of rain.

Margaret invites those who knew Gordon to share memories or photos via email. Kindly confirm attendance by Wednesday, 21st May 2025.

A separate celebration of Gordon’s life will also be held in Uganda at a later date.

Tributes from Uganda

On Thursday, May 7, 2025, members of the Caledonian Society of Uganda gathered at Dancing Cup in Bugolobi, Kampala to honour Bell's memory. The event, led by current chieftain Cheryl Lettenmaier, included a toast to Gordon’s legacy.

Messages of condolence poured in from friends and community members:

▪️ “Rest in peace, Gordon. Condolences to Margaret and the family,” shared Diana.

▪️ “Very warm and welcoming person,” added Martha.

▪️ Others, including Eric, Betty, Faridah, Don, Taylor, Evelyn, Hakiza, Annabel, Haron, Romina, James, Alastair, Anna, Reinhold, Harriet, Brenda, John and Martin sent heartfelt messages.

Lindsay Davidson, a long-time friend, reflected on Bell’s deep roots in Uganda: “Gordon arrived in Uganda in 1985 and built a remarkable career as a civil engineer. He was a dedicated member of the Victoria Nyanza Sailing Club, where he served as commodore, and a chieftain of the Caledonian Society.”

Gordon Bell is survived by his wife Margaret and daughters Corrie and Iona.