RIP Dave You were an incredible man who left us with so many heart felt memories. Your gift of art will be there for years to come and remind us of your humor, your friendship and the joy you gave so freely. It's a sad day for all who loved you ......... My condolences to Dave's family
.... ".I'd always draw cars on my own time or pin stripe, a little bit. In 1956, I came home from a toboggan party and I went to my bedroom and I had picked up the new "Carcraft", that day. It was Friday night, I was about 16 years old, and while changing my wet clothes I started looking at this car book. I sat on the bed and started looking at this great custom shoebox Ford on the cover, with the candy apple paint, the Olds motor in it, all tuck and rolled and everything. I started flipping through the book and there was this article on Von Dutch, the pinstriper. That was a very big night in my life, looking at Von Dutch's work. There was a guy who had all that abstract , Salvador Dali type art and he would paint it on these killer cars."
I was very touched when Dave did a tribute to my late father in the Dec. 2009 Street Rodder. He touched so many with his artwork. What a GREAT loss to the rodding world. R.I.P. my friend. Condolences to Dave's family.
Tough to hear. Sympathy and wishes of peace to Dave's family and friends. When I got my first MSRA membership sticker and read: "Rump-rump-rump-VOOM-wap..." I remember thinking "Wow, did this guy nail it!" Been a big Dave Bell fan ever since. R-I-P, ol' ink-slinger.
Wow, this one really hurts. I had always hoped to meet him. Maybe someday in another place. We lost a great one this weekend. His art will live on forever in all of our hearts. Glad he is at peace now. Vaya con Dios, Amigo........................E
Dave was a fellow artist here in the twin cities -A very unique style in his artwork and pinstriping - a friend for over 35 years - the hot rodding community worldwide has lost a great one! No more suffering Dave...you will be missed. Cliff
I was 6 when Dave signed this for me.. I have cherished this, and his art ever since.. Rest in Peace Mr. Bell.
Somewhere I have some original art I commissioned from him for a company logo about 30 years ago. I'll need to find it and have it framed as a tribute to one of the finest auto illustrators of all time. Rest in Peace and God grant your friends and family peace in their time of sorrow and longing.
God bless Dave, I'm grateful your suffering was not prolonged, our prayers will be with your family during their hour of need and season of sorrow. To say that you inspired me is an understatement. Rest in Peace...
Dave included my Datsun in this one that he did for Truckin magazine a long time ago, before mini's became, well, the abortions they became. At the time I felt like I had really made it as a builder to have Dave acknowledge me. Godspeed Mr. Bell
Rest in Peace, Dave. You inspired so many, made us all smile and gave us a laugh. The hot rod and custom world will miss you dearly, sir. Thanks for many years of wonderful art. I wish I could have met you.
My thoughts and prayers to you Dave, and your family and friends; God speed to you. You helped me and so many others relive our youth thur your wonderful art...for this I thank you.... R.I.P. Dave
The Jalopy Journal
