Clarence Bell Obituary

Clarence Robert Bell Jr. (“Bob”) was born on January 2, 1939, in rural Monroe County, Iowa, to Clarence Robert Sr. and Florence (Kellogg) Bell. He passed away peacefully at his home in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, on November 9, 2025. Bob graduated from Albia High School in 1957.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1961 as a construction engineer, stationed in Korea where he helped rebuild roads. Following his active duty, he continued his service in the Army Reserve from 1961 to 1964.

On June 1, 1963, Bob married the love of his life, Eloise Josephine “Jo” Dicks. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two children, Bobby and Lisa.

After returning home from military service, Bob had a diverse career — from pumping gas at a full-service station to helping construct Interstate 80 near Atlantic, Iowa. He later operated a bulldozer for Des Moines Asphalt before becoming a tire builder. He remained with the company through three acquisitions and eventually retired from Titan Tire. During retirement, Bob enjoyed working part-time at Payless Lumberyard.

In his leisure time, Bob loved riding his bike and taking meticulous care of his yard, often mowing twice a week to keep it looking perfect. He made many fishing trips to Minnesota and Canada in pursuit of walleye and enjoyed traveling with Jo, spending many winters in Texas and Arizona, and always finding time for a trip to Branson. Bob was also a devoted community member, serving on the Pleasant Hill Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years, including time as Fire Chief.

Bob is survived by his children, Robert “Bobby” Bell (Jeri) and Lisa Wisnousky (Ted); six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; his brother, Jim; and his sisters, Pat, Donna, Janie, and Rosie. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo; his parents, Clarence and Florence Bell; and his sister, Katie.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, November 14, at Oakwood Cemetery in Pleasant Hill, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to MercyOne Hospice in Bob’s memory.

Arrangements handled by Iles Grandview Park Chapel

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