Jay Bell

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     Jay Thomas Bell was born in Denison, Iowa, on May 30, 1953, to William and Lois (North) Bell. Jay attended school in Vail and graduated with the Class of 1971. Following graduation, Jay proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. After his service, he married Mary Peterson, and together they were blessed with two daughters, Stacie and Laura. Jay spent many years behind the wheel as a truck driver, a career that suited his hardworking nature and love of the open road. In June of 1998, Jay married Jane Beam, and through their marriage he gained three stepdaughters: Michelle, Maretta, and Maurecia. Jay later continued his career driving concrete trucks for Hosteng Concrete and then worked construction until his retirement with Ten Point Construction Company.

     Jay found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved birds, especially watching and feeding them. He admired Allis-Chalmer tractors, enjoyed playing cards, working Sudoku puzzles, and camping with family and friends. He was known for his ornery sense of humor and fun-loving personality. Jay had a way of making people laugh and keeping life interesting. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

     Jay passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Mercy One Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 72 years, 11 months, and 24 days.

     Jay was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Howard Bell and Rodney “Pete” Bell; and son-in-law, Rick Julich. He is survived by his wife, Jane Bell of Arion; daughters, Stacie Julich of Carroll, Iowa and Laura Bell of Des Moines, Iowa; stepdaughters, Michelle (Denny) Fineran of Denison, Maretta Janning (Darren Thompson) of Denison, Maurecia (Drew) Young of Council Bluffs, Iowa; grandkids, Mallory Berg, Greg Ridgley, Hannah Julich, Natalie Griesman, Jocelyn Griesman, Luke Julich; sister, Linda (Mick) Massman of Council Bluffs; and many other relatives and friends.