Ann Bell

Ann Bell lived an extraordinary life.

Born Elizabeth Ann on January 2, 1944, in Wichita, Kansas (though, as her family would say, never call her Elizabeth), she could not have imagined the many places life would take her.

Her remarkable journey truly began when she married the love of her life, John Bell, on June 19, 1965. Their love story became their guiding light and remained a constant through nearly 60 years of marriage. Together, they built a family and welcomed their two daughters, Cheryl and Linda, into their home in California.

From there, Ann, John, and their daughters, embarked on many adventures, living in seven cities across four states and three countries. They made homes in ten different houses, each one enriched by the traditions, experiences, and memories they gathered along the way.

While living in England, Ann attended cooking school, deepening her passion for cooking and baking. The kitchen became the heart of her home, where she created countless cherished meals and memories. Her daughters fondly relied on the “1-800-ASK-ANN” hotline for cooking advice throughout their own lives and deeply miss her wisdom.

Ann’s extraordinary life extended beyond her home. At a time when few women worked in technology, she built a career as an education IT professional. She was also deeply involved in women’s service organizations, most notably the Vancouver, Washington Newcomers Group. Her passion for teaching and helping others serving as a defining thread throughout her life.

In retirement, Ann and John settled in Brush Prairie, Washington, where they created a beautiful home filled with love and celebration. There, Ann hosted meaningful gatherings, including their 50th wedding anniversary and their daughter Linda’s wedding. She also cherished life’s quieter moments—baking with her granddaughters and preparing family holiday meals, always centered around her beloved kitchen. It was in her home that she passed away peacefully on February 26th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family—John, Cheryl, and Linda.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, John; her daughter Cheryl Bell and her husband, Alan Papesh; her daughter Linda Bell Russo and her wife, Marianne Russo; and her granddaughters, Kayla Schmidt and Gioia Russo.

Ann lived an extraordinary life as an extraordinary woman. In her honor, and in lieu of flowers, her family invites you to share a meal with your loved ones and, if you feel called, make a donation to your local food bank.