Don Bell SR

Donald “Don” Bell Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on February 3, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, at the age of 81. He was born on March 31, 1943, in Amarillo, Texas to Lee Roy and Mable Mae (Harrald) Bell.

Don dedicated 43 years of his life to the BNSF Railway, where he began his career in 1959, loading/unloading box cars and working in the mail room in Amarillo, TX. Moving to Topeka, KS in 1982, he continued his career with the railroad, later retiring in 2002 as a Senior Technical Analyst in Computer Operations. Showing his commitment to hard work and innovation, his professional journey also included 4 years with IBM Global Services, from where he retired a second time.

Don was a beloved figure in both his family and community. He was a proud “Sandie”, having graduated from Amarillo High School in 1961 and later attending Amarillo College. He possessed a kind heart and an infectious sense of humor that endeared him to everyone he met. Don was known as the glue that held his family and friends together, always the first to lend an ear, offer a laugh, or to give one of his famous hugs. It is said that no one ever had anything bad to say about him, as he lived by the motto of treating others with kindness, and he truly never knew a stranger.

In his leisure time, Don embraced his passions wholeheartedly. He was instrumental in starting the Panhandle Soccer Association in Amarillo, TX, and the Sunflower Soccer Association in Topeka, KS. He coached soccer teams for both of his children and officiated many games for they and their friends. A dedicated NHRA fan, he took great joy in attending car shows and proudly owned a 1932 Ford Victoria. He also loved riding motorcycles with his wife, sharing great times with one another. A devoted KC Chiefs, KU Basketball and US Women’s Soccer fan, he sported an enthusiasm that matched his vibrant personality. He also looked forward every week to having coffee with his old buddies from work, sharing many stories and laughs.

Don's love for his family was evident in all that he did in life. He married Allana (Emmerson) Bell on June 9, 1967, and they spent 57 wonderful years together. He is survived by their daughter, Kimberly Don Jones, and their son, Donald “Don” Thomas Bell Jr., both of Topeka, KS. Also left to cherish his memory are his brother, Robert “Rex” (Rev. Beth) Bell (Oklahoma City, OK), Sister, Martha Parker (Bryan, TX), Barbara Bell (sister-in-law, Katy, TX), and his beloved granddaughter, Makenzie Don Bell (Wichita, KS). Don was also a very proud uncle to his nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Lee Roy Bell and Mable Mae Bell, and his brother, Nelson Bell.

Don will be greatly missed, not just for his kindness and humor, but for the joyful spirit he brought into every room. He leaves behind countless memories, including times filled with much love and laughter, and his family takes solace in the fact that he will forever influence their lives. They know he is at peace, joyfully reunited with his departed loved ones, and undoubtedly still sharing jokes, laughs, and many, many hugs.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 3, 2025, at Dove Cremations & Funerals Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd in Topeka, KS. Services will begin at 11:30am. Guests will be invited to share their memories of Don during the celebration.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Rescue Mission, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or PBS.

To share a memory of Don or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guest book below.