Robert Duane Bell, 77, of Hill City, began his life May 10, 1947 in Hays, Kansas. He was the oldest of seven children born to Duane and Berneta (Kerbaugh) Bell. Bob departed this life on Earth to begin his next journey September 30, 2024 with his family at his side.
Bob was united in marriage to Kathy Brown and to this union three children were born: Jeremy, Nicole and Casey. In 1990 Bob met Adrenne Brault, better known as Andie, at an AA meeting. They began dating, attending singles dances, fishing and doing many outdoor activities. Bob and Andie were united in marriage June 14, 1991. With this union, Bob gained three sons: Jon, Mike and Ron Brault, and three grandsons: Brandon, Caden and Weston.
Bob’s passions in life included driving fast cars and loud motorcycles, fishing, hunting, camping and generally anything outdoors. And Bob was also passionate about his dogs, especially his bird dogs. Bob and Andie spent hours and hours in their yard. Their gardens were a wealth of fresh vegetables and a bounty of fruit from the various trees.
Bob served his country during the Vietnam War Era. In addition to his time in Germany, he spent time in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division, “The Screaming Eagles”. Bob was an active member in AA and served as a sponsor. He was proud of his 48 years of sobriety. He was also a member of the Hill City American Legion and the Honor Guard, marching in the Graham County Fair Parades and Memorial Day Services at the cemetery. Following his military service he worked in various jobs. Later returning to Hill City, Bob began his employment with the City of Hill City, working in all departments. A portion of his employment with the city was as Superintendent. Following his retirement, Bob continued serving as cemetery caretaker.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents: Duane and Berneta, his sister Nelda, daughter Nicole, stepson Jon Brault, and sister-in-law Marcella Brin.
He is survived and will be deeply missed by his wife Andie; children Jeremy and wife Nikki of Victoria, Casey of Hill City; stepsons: Mike and wife Stacie Brault of Magalia, California and Ron Brault of Oroville, California; nine grandchildren: Kelsi and husband Donny Hildebrand, Kinzie, Lux, Taylor Stramel and wife Hollie, Lucas, Cydnee, Brandon Brault, Caden, Weston; four great grandchildren; brothers: Ronald and wife Brenda of Lawrence, Richard and wife Leslie of Hill City, Gaylen and wife Susie of Bogue, and Craig Ayers of Canyon Lake, Texas; sisters: Juanita Richey of Hill City and Becky and husband Charles Hoss of Lenexa; brothers and sisters-in-law and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation: Sunday, October 6, 2024, 3 to 7 p.m. at Stinemetz Funeral Home – Funeral Service: Monday, October 7, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at Hill City Christian Church. Memorials suggested to the family may be sent to Stinemetz Funeral Home, 522 N. Pomeroy, Hill City, KS 67642. Condolences for the family may be posted on www.stinemetzfh.com