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Barbara Jean Bell, age 92, formerly of Mendon and Vicksburg, died Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018 at Sue’s Loving Care Home in Kalamazoo. She was born in Three Rivers on July 10, 1926 the daughter of the late John Henry and Zella Blanchard (Avery) Fenwick. She graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1944 and attended Western Michigan University and the Bronson Hospital School of Nursing. She was a nurse for over 40 years, working mostly at Vicksburg-Franklin Memorial Hospital. Barbara was married to Richard Duane Bell on Feb. 16, 1947 in Three Rivers. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing, and raised chickens every Spring. She was a 4-H Leader for many years when her children were young. Barbara especially enjoyed camping and travel. She and her family were able to travel to all 50 states, Australia, and New Zeeland.
Barbara is survived by five sons, Darrell Bell of Mendon, Bruce (Bonnie) Bell of Portage, Duane Bell of Mendon, David (Kathy) Bell of Mendon, and Terry (Diane) Bell of Mattawan; fifteen grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; a sister, Nancy Fenwick of Vicksburg.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Richard; two grandchildren, Kimberly and Adam Bell; a great-grandson, Joshua Little; daughter in law, Linda Bell; and her favorite pet, Rastas.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 pm on Sunday at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. Funeral services will be at 1 pm Monday, Nov. 26, 2018 at the funeral home with Rev. Carl Litchfield, Pastor of the Mendon United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Vicksburg Cemetery. Memorials will be directed to Sue’s Loving Care, 2827 Courtlandt, Kalamazoo, MI 49004.Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com
