Eunice Ellen Bell

Eunice Ellen Bell, 80 of Dowagiac, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2026, likely with a to-do list still in mind. She was born in Vandalia, on July 11, 1945 to Glenn and Ada (Smeltzer) Hartzell. She grew up in Jones, alongside her older brother Louie, developing the determination and independence that would define her life.

Eunice graduated from Marcellus High School in 1963 and later married Richard Bell on New Year’s Eve 1980. They shared nearly three decades together until his passing in 2010.

Eunice worked for many years at Ausra Equipment Co. and Creative Foam, but retirement didn’t slow her down one bit. A proud member of the Dowagiac Moose Lodge 933, she was always on the move — visiting friends and family.

Eunice enjoyed taking motorcycle rides and spending time with her close friend, John Boyce. She also enjoyed shopping, traveling the area listening to local bands and working in her yard. She firmly believed that if something needed done, she could do it herself — including shoveling snow and climbing onto the roof to clear leaves (whether anyone approved or not).

She never met a stranger, thanks to her legendary gift of gab. A quick trip to the store could easily turn into a two-hour social event. Her laughter, stories, and strong opinions will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Eunice leaves behind her children, Denise (Dennis) Juday, Daryl Keesler (Julie Tavrides), Jason (Kerri) Bell, and Robert Bell (Tosha Atiah); Grandchildren, Jeremy (Hannah) Juday, Jordan (Allison) Juday, and Madalyn Bell (Miles Barilla); and her great-granddaughter Luella Juday, along with many dear friends.

The family would like you to join them for a Celebration of Eunice’s life and dinner on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Dowagiac Moose, 54867 M-51, Dowagiac from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Eunice will be laid to rest in Plum Grove Cemetery in Union, next to her husband and her parents.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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