Deanna Rae Bell, 78, of Kendall, Wis., passed away on April 15, 2025.
Born on Feb. 24, 1947, to Everett and Donna (Severson) Walter, Deanna spent her early childhood in Minneapolis, Minn. At the age of 7, she moved to a family farm outside Kendall, where she was lovingly raised by her father, grandparents, and Uncle Glen. She began her schooling at Sutcliffe Corner School, attending through eighth grade, and went to Royall High School.
In 1964, Deanna married John Brandt of Kendall, and together they welcomed three children: Michael J., Kristina M., and Dawn R. Later, she pursued further education at Wisconsin Technical School in La Crosse.
In 1972, Deanna married Alan J. Bell, and their union created a warm and loving blended family with the addition of Kristin K. and Todd A. Together, they raised their children on a farm near Mount Tabor.
Deanna was known for her warm heart, great sense of humor, and deep love for her family. She had a passion for cooking and spent many joyful hours in the kitchen. She also enjoyed playing card games, doing puzzles, various game shows and was an avid fan of mystery television shows, especially “Murder, She Wrote,” “Perry Mason,” and “Barnaby Jones.” Music held a special place in her heart, particularly Daniel O’Donnell and gospel bluegrass. She especially cherished attending local concerts and festivals with her grandchildren where she could enjoy live performances and connect with fellow music lovers.
In later years, Deanna and Alan spent a short but memorable time in Horseshoe Bend, Ark., forming meaningful bonds with a new church community. Though their time there was cut short due to declining health, and they returned to Wisconsin, they brought fond memories of their time and the friendships they built. Deanna’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and quiet strength. She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior during a tent revival meeting in 1992. Deanna will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Deanna is survived by her husband of 52 years, Alan. Her son, Mike (Marina) Brandt of Soldotna, Alaska. Kris (Shane) Rowan of Tomah, Dawn (Ken) Brandau of Kendall. Her Stepdaughter, Kris (Keith) Jones of Hillsboro, and stepson Todd (Julia) Bell of Two Rivers, and honorary daughter, Terri Schumann. Among the survivors are 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Her sister, LaVonne (Sherrill) Murphy of New Lisbon, half-sister, Sue Bolden of Sparta, and half-sister Nancy Hagee of Morley, Missouri. One niece, two nephews, and many dear cousins.
Deanna is preceded in death by her mother and father, in-laws Marian and Norman Bell. Her brother Gary Walter and half-brother Roger Ericson, her Brothers-in-law Terry Bolden, Jody Hagee, and Doug Bell, and her granddaughter Gwen Rowan.
A Funeral Service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, at Evangelical Free Church, 104 E. Hall St., Kendall. Burial will be in the Glendale Cemetery.
Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Wednesday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. The Smith-Nelson/Sonnenburg Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.
