Bonnie Bell

Bonnie Bell, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away on September 24, 2026, at the age of 67.

Bonnie was born on March 1, 1959, in Rockford, Illinois, to Melvin and Vera Ratfield. She was raised in Kennard, Nebraska, and attended high school in Arlington and Blair before graduating from Southeast Community College in Milford, Nebraska.

On March 20, 1983, Bonnie was united in marriage to Jerry Bell. Bonnie was a devoted mother to her three children, Sarah, Jerry, and April. Jerry embraced Bonnie's children as his own, and together they shared many years as a family. The couple eventually made their home in Milford, Nebraska, in 1998, where they remained together for the rest of Bonnie's life.

Bonnie was a devoted homemaker and caregiver who found great joy in creating a warm and welcoming home for her family. She possessed a creative and artistic spirit and enjoyed many forms of arts and crafts. She was especially talented in crocheting, macramé, and sketching. One of her favorite pastimes was creating beautiful diamond paintings, with each completed piece reflecting her patience, creativity, and attention to detail.

Above all, Bonnie treasured her family. She was a homebody who cherished the time she spent with her husband and children and took great pride in the family they built together. Her caring nature, generous heart, and gentle spirit brought warmth and comfort to those around her, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, Jerry Bell; her three children, Sarah Holst Ratfield, Jerry Peterson, and April Lupien; two brothers; and one sister.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Vera Ratfield, and an older brother.

In accordance with Bonnie's wishes, she will be cremated, and no services are planned at this time.

Memorials may be directed to the family for a future designation.
The family invites friends and loved ones to share memories and photographs of Bonnie on her memorial page. These memories will serve as a lasting tribute to her loving nature, creative spirit, and the many lives she touched throughout her life.