Patricia Lou Bell’s soul departed from our world at 10:20 p.m. on Sept. 11, after a 20-year battle with kidney disease.
Patricia, one of three daughters and two sons born to Margaret and John Shepherd, was born on Sept. 7, 1940, in Summit County, Ohio. The Shepherd family relocated to Southern California, where Patricia eventually met her future husband, David Richard Bell. After a two-year courtship, the couple married in April of 1958, the beginning of a glorious 63-year, six-month union.
Patricia and David worked hand in hand to create a good life for the growing family. Patricia and David have two children, Christine (Joey) Lucero and James “Jim” (Dianna) Bell.
The Bell family moved to Pagosa Springs, Colo., in 1989. Patricia and David chose to buy acreage in Aspen Springs, where they built their dream home themselves. Patricia passed away in her home with her family by her side.
Patricia was a natural-born homemaker. She loved to celebrate her favorite holiday, Christmas Eve, by cooking large sit-down meals for the whole family. Her cookies and chocolate fudge were well-known and never to be forgotten. Pat also enjoyed cross stitching. She handmade blankets for all of her grand and great-grandchildren.
She is now resting in the Hill Top Cemetery with provisions for David’s future burial at her side. They refused to be separated in life and will not be apart after passing on.
Church and graveside services were provided by Pastor Dan Sanders, a longtime personal friend. Attending were family, relatives and friends.
“The next time we are together will be for eternity my love” — Dave.
