Duane Bell

Duane O. Bell has no more cart to move around in or missing his office chair he longed for the past six months and has taken his final load to the streets of gold in heaven. Greeted by his parents and son Ron, on the morning of June 7, 2024 from the Knox County Nursing Home.

He was born in Galva (the house is gone now but was located behind the ford garage) on October 30, 1938, the son of C.S. and Marjorie Bell.

Graduating from Galva High School in 1956, he married the love of his life, Suzanne Armstrong on November 17, 1957. Together they had four healthy sons. They first lived east of Galva and then in 1975 moved to Duane and Sue’s dream farm west of town.

Duane’s entire life, as an employee, driver, mechanic and owner of Bell Trucking Co, which his father started in 1933, this past September he proudly celebrated the 90th year in business.

Duane loved Galva, IL, the friendly face, and the place he called home. He was very proud of how the town grew and flourished, and every sports team and activity he so kindheartedly supported.

He loved the family he left behind, Suzanne and his three sons; Steve (Susan) of Galva, Richard (Jane Doss) of Fort Meyers, FL and Chris (Tricia) of Broken Arrow, OK, his daughter-in Law, Georgia Bell of Galesburg, his sister, Jean Oehlman of Harland, IA, grandchildren; Rebecca, Daniel, Remington, Wendy, Kerry, Tracy, CeCe, Chloe. Molly and Jonah and ten healthy great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Jack, and son Ron.

A visitation will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 12 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Graveside services will be held at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, June 13 at Galva Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Galva Fusiliers. Pastor Katie Gallagher will officiate. Coffee and Duane’s favorite Geneseo donuts will follow the service at the Messiah Lutheran Church in Galva. Memorials may be directed to the Messiah Lutheran Church, Galva American Legion or to the Galva Park District for a bench.

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