Jack Bell

Jack F. Bell passed into the arms of his Lord and loving wife on June 6, 2016, at the age of 92. Jack is survived by his daughters Pamela Hall, Deborah (Todd) Dolan, and Jolene (Paul) Makowesky; 5 grandchildren Gregg Hall (Jackie), Eric Klute, Joel Klute (Heather), Renee Van Gundy, and Sara Behn (Chad), and 14 great-grandchildren. Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann, on May 24, 2015. He was also preceded in death by his parents and great-grandchild, Peyton Van Gundy. Jack was born May 30, 1924, in Norwalk, Iowa, the only child of Everett and Edna Hazel (Mathews) Bell. Jack married Mary Ann Updike, the woman who captured his heart and soul, on August 12, 1942. Their love was visible as was Jack's total devotion to Mary Ann for 72 years and 9 months. Jack was a deeply principled man, a forward thinker, planning and preparing for life. His word was solid; his handshake binding. Jack was a proud Marine having served in both WWII and the Korean Conflict. He was seldom without his Marine Corps cap. He worked for the Milwaukee Railroad for most of his adult life following in the steps of his grandfather, uncle and father. But his heartfelt job was as provider and "rock" for his wife, daughters and grandchildren. After 10 years of traveling the US in their RV, Jack and Mary Ann moved to MN where they became Twins baseball fans and active members of their communities. In the last year of Jack's life he won the Spirit of Aging award for the state of MN and attended many Twins games even raising the US flag during the national anthem. A celebration of Jack's life is scheduled for June 25 at 11:00 am at the First Christian Church, Perry, IA, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment for Jack and Mary Ann will be at Violet Hill Cemetery following the service and luncheon. Jack will receive full military honors. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to First Christian Church, Perry IA or Auburn Homes & Services, Attn: Bob Kuhlman, 594 Cherry Dr., Waconia, MN 55387. Jack's family is grateful for the exceptional love and care he received at Auburn Meadows Assisted Living. Jack loved every minute in his home and with his friends at Auburn Meadows. Jack lived in love and died in peace. He is where he wants to be - holding his beloved, Mary Ann.