Gene Allen Bell

Gene Allen Bell, born April 20, 1959, passed away on December 7, 2023 in the comfort of his home with his wife by his side and family nearby. He was a beloved husband to Susan Petersen-Bell, as they have spent 29 beautiful years together. Gene grew up in Lemon Grove, California and at just 12 years old he started his journey of becoming a master of his trade; drywall, texture and paint. As a teen and into his adult years, he spent the majority of his time sand dune racing, rock-climbing and "perfecting" his two-finger pull-up. In July of 1992 he packed his bags and moved to Okanogan. He and Susan were introduced in 1994 by her brother's set-up and fell head over heels. They spent their young years enjoying the adventures of life and a new, smitten relationship. In 1996, Gene and Susan opened OK Drywall where they dedicated their time to owning a small town business and donating to the community. In Gene's spare time he joined the Old West Gun Fighters aka Berney Gang and loved participating in the Old West Gun Fight shows. In 1997, Gene married the love of his life and they began their new journey together. They spent many wonderful years fishing, traveling, snowmobiling, riding horses and ATVs. Gene was an amazing husband, son, father figure, brother, and grandfather. One of his favorite things was taking the grandkids fishing, giving ATV rides, and taking them on trips. His jolly laugh and quirky personality would always light up a room. Unfortunately, Gene lost his battle to Esophageal Cancer, after fighting for the last two years. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Al & Bonnie Bell, siblings Jerry & Lori, father and mother in-law, Stanley & Phyllis Petersen, sister in-law Lisa Petersen and brother in-law Ross Hinshaw. He is survived by his wife, Susan Petersen-Bell, step-sons; Tim Brady-wife Rachel, Thad Brady-wife Korina. Grandchildren; Jameka, Kayla, Natayla, Jaedyn, Teagan, Braedyn, Isaiah, Liam, Natalie, Amaya and Owen. In-Laws; Shirley & Jim Klein, Z Tony & Sandy Petersen, Peg Hinshaw, Marilou & Andy Baker, Patsy Rearden, George Petersen & Darcy Hawkins, John Goss. And many, many others who loved him. Family was the upmost important thing to him and he found that in Okanogan within the Petersen families. There will be a graveside service at Okanogan Memorial Gardens on Conconully Hwy, Saturday, December 16th at 1 PM. Snow Clothes are completely appropriate and all are welcome, as Gene knew many! A special thanks to Omak Oncology, staff and nurses, for their support and compassion that has helped so much while going through this battle. In lieu of flowers or cards, the family asks, if you feel the need to donate, to please donate to Cancer Care and Bouncing for Boobies as they have provided tremendous support to Gene and Susan over the last year.

Gene Allen Bell

April 20, 1959 - December 7, 2023