David Patrick Bell Sr.

David Patrick Bell Sr., beloved father, husband, brother, and friend, passed away on August 17, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the age of 75.

David was born on July 20, 1950, in San Diego, California, to Robert Cecil Bell Jr. and Ruth Ellen (Armacost) Bell. In 1957, his family moved to Santa Rosa, California, where he grew up, graduating from Montgomery High School in 1968.

As a child, David's creativity shone early-he was the producer and star of homemade monster movies that drew in neighborhood kids as co-stars. His "scary enough" productions left a mark, especially on his younger siblings, who often found themselves interested in the action but also terrified, as his costumes and makeup were so realistic. He also had a love for sports, playing baseball in Rincon Valley Little League and Senior League, as well as football.

In February 1969, David proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving until May 1972. He completed two tours in Vietnam: the first aboard the USS Repose, a hospital ship, and the second on the USS Mondero, patrolling the Mekong Delta. His time in service remained one of his most treasured accomplishments and a source of lasting pride.

After his military service, David built a career in management and customer service. He worked for Kentucky Fried Chicken in the Bay Area, Short Stop in Willits, and Northern Glass in Santa Rosa. In 1990, he moved to Colorado Springs, where he spent 22 years at Bob's Liquor until his retirement. Loyal and hardworking, David poured himself into everything he did.

David was married twice-first to Marvleen (Kokoruda) Bell in 1970, and later to Kathleen (Pick) Bell in 1991, to whom he was married for 34 years. He was a proud and loyal father to his children, David Bell Jr. and Karen Bell-Burrington, and stepfather to Danielle (Donnelly) Utrera and James Donnelly.

Those who knew David will remember his passions and his depth. He was a walking sports encyclopedia, a die-hard Raiders fan (even while living in Broncos country), and a loyal Giants supporter. He had a remarkable connection with nature and animals, often pausing to learn the names of birds, butterflies, and insects. His curiosity never waned. Music was another love-he carried an incredible knowledge of it and occasionally dabbled in poetry. His wicked sense of humor was never far from the surface, and he had a way of making others laugh even in the toughest times. His favorite films reflected his grit and spirit: westerns, war movies, and classics like Heartbreak Ridge, Hang 'Em High, and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

To describe David was to describe something timeless: he was like his old Navy pea coat-heavy, determined, and scratchy, yet filled with honor and tradition. He was every Clint Eastwood movie, every Gunsmoke episode on repeat, and the raw honesty of Platoon. Above all, he was loyal-to his country, to his family, to his friends, and to the things he loved.

David is survived by his wife, Kathleen Bell, his children, David Bell Jr. and Karen Bell-Burrington; his stepchildren, Danielle Utrera and James Donnelly; his grandchildren; his siblings, Steve (Sheila) Bell and Diana (Ron) Curtis; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Bell Jr. and Ruth Bell, and his brothers, Robert Bell III and Daniel Bell.

A private celebration will be held in his honor in the future.

David's life was one of loyalty, resilience, determination, hard work, and humor. His legacy will continue in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.