Charles Edward Bell

Charles Edward Bell, 99, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Friday, March 1, 2024, at Loving Arms in Sedalia. He was born on October 30, 1924, in Sedalia, MO, the son of Cleo Thompson Bell and Margaret Eleanor (Sands) Bell, who preceded him in death.

On March 1, 1952, at East Sedalia Baptist Church, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Ellen Jean Inselman, who resides in the home.

Charles entered the US Army in 1943 and was assigned to Troop B of the 125th Red Horse Cavalry Mechanized Reconnaissance First Army. He was a machine gunner in an Armored Car. He invaded France on Omaha Beach on the first morning of the Normandy Invasion on LST 54. He participated in the breakout at St-Lo, the capture of Paris, the Battle of the Bulge, and many more. His unit was credited as the farthest eastern American Forces meeting the Russians. They were in combat for a total of 309 days, beginning at Normandy.

Charles owned and operated several shoe stores on Ohio Street in the early 60's. He ended his working career with AAA Insurance for 28 years, retiring as Western District Manager. He was a 50-year member of Sedalia Masonic Lodge #272 AF&AM, Jaycees, and Kiwanis Club. He also served the city on the traffic committee as well as other positions at both East Sedalia Baptist and Broadway Presbyterian Church.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Charles E. Bell, II (Julissa) of El Paso, TX, Daniel T. Bell (Robin) of Sedalia, Jeanna (Bell) Cissell (Rob) of Troy, MO; four grandchildren, Angie Deeter, Lisa Kutzner (Chad), Courtney Bell, and Sarah Howell (Ryan); ten great-grandchildren, Jacob, Christian, Karson, Roz, and Tucker Deeter, Cora and Amos Kutzner, Oaklyn Bell, Ayden and Riley Howell; three nieces Mary Ann Davis, Markie Hart, and Ellen Jean Donnell; and a nephew John Urton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Kathleen Bell, and four sisters, Daisey Stratton, Lucille Wells, Cleo McCune, and Norma Jean Gilpin.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, 3510 W. 16th St., with Pastor Rob Hughes officiating.

Full Military Honors will be conducted by the United States Army, VFW Post #2591, and the Patriot Guard Riders.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, at the funeral chapel, with a Masonic service being conducted by Sedalia Masonic Lodge #272 AF&AM.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Broadway Presbyterian Church in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia.