Lonnie Ray Bell

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lonnie Ray Bell, who was born on October 1,1950, at the home of his parents, George and Gladys (Sinkey) Bell. He passed away peacefully at his own home on September 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family-just one day before his 75th birthday.

Lonnie graduated from Sigourney High School in 1968 and went on to earn his degree in Automotive Technology from IHCC. On August 16, 1969, Lonnie married the love of his life, Pauline Kracht. Together, they built a life filled with faith, love, devotion, and family. Their marriage of more than five decades was a true testament to their deep bond and enduring partnership.

Lonnie lived a full and meaningful life, marked by loyalty, strength, and kindness to those around him. He was known for his warm heart, steady presence, and the way he made others feel cared for and valued. To those who knew him, Lonnie was more than a loved one-he was a source of comfort, laughter, and wisdom. Lonnie was a hardworking man who took great pride in his work and his ability to provide for his family. Over the years, he worked at multiple automotive shops, First Miss, Gossett Feed, and spent time farming with his father-in-law. He drove a school bus for the Sigourney Community School District for 27 years, safely transporting generations of children and greeting each one with a smile. He was also a skilled carpenter for many years and truly a jack of all trades, able to fix, build, or create just about anything. His hands shaped not only wood and work but also the lives of those around him through his dedication, love, and care. He also served on the Board of Review.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Pauline; their four children: Kimberly (Mike) DeWeese, Lonnie L. (Jenny) Bell, Annette Bell, and David (Rebekah) Bell; his mother-in-law, Luetta Kracht; siblings Russell (Mary) Bell, Merry Avery, George (Terri) Bell, and Penny Melzarek; and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law Janet (Bob) Renner and Kathy Kracht. Lonnie was a proud grandfather to 18 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 15 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. He will also be remembered by many nieces and nephews. His family was his greatest treasure, and his legacy will continue to live on through them.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gladys Bell; siblings John (Hazel) Bell, Nancy (John) Payne, and Georgia (Jim) Porter; his father-in-law, Leroy Kracht; and his brother-in-law, Wayne Kracht.

Lonnie will be remembered for his kind heart, steady spirit, and the love he poured into his family and friends. He was a member of the Christian Church of Sigourney and had a lifelong faith in God. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A visitation to honor Lonnie's life will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Enchanted Events. A service celebrating his life will follow on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., also at Enchanted Events, followed by a luncheon where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the man who meant so much to so many.

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