Jerry Bell
January 30, 1939 ~ July 29, 2024
Jerry Lee Bell, 85, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2024. Born on January 30, 1939, in Bloomfield, Iowa, Jerry spent his life mastering the art of conversation and craftsmanship. He retired as the Building Director at Merchants National Bank before continuing his passion for building as a General Contractor.
A dedicated member of the Reserves, Jerry carried the discipline and commitment from his military service throughout his career and personal life. He had a profound love for exploring rural America, often traveling off the beaten path to experience the country's heartland, as it truly is.
Jerry is remembered as a master carpenter, creating enduring projects that will stand the test of time, always striving for perfection. His joyful presence and love for his family, especially his grandchildren whom he adored and playfully teased, filled his life with immense happiness.
Jerry leaves behind his wife, Shirley (Carter) Bell; sons, Lonnie D. Bell and Mark D. Bell, both of Cedar Rapids; brother, Gene Bell, of Marion; sister, Susan Pelly, of Springfield, Missouri; grandchildren, Cody, Ashlee, Lexi, and Ellie; and great-grandchild, Presley.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert M. Bell and Erma (Bradley) Pauline, and brothers, Robert E. Bell, Harold D. Bell, and William L. Bell.
Jerry's life and memory will be cherished by all who knew him, leaving a lasting imprint on many lives through his personal and professional endeavors.
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services – Cedar Rapids
I worked with Jerry at Merchants National. He was an exacting craftsman. No shortcuts. The job was completed in a way that ensured it was quality work, and would last. I am sure there are a great many things in that building that Jerry touched. Later on, my father would sometimes help Jerry with his construction projects. He said the same. Rest well, my friend.
Sending my heartfelt sympathy to the family. Jerry was always friendly and nice to chat with. A nice man.
Jerry did a did a substantial amount of work on my parents’ house during its construction. He also did many home repair and restoration projects on their house, as well as on mine. In addition, he came to my house during its construction to check for possible flaws and inadequate craftsmanship, at our request.
Jerry did a masterful job installing beautiful home theater cabinets and decor in our home’s lower level. He provided ideas on design, and ensured that the final product was shimmed and fitted to perfection. He even returned, free of charge, when we had questions on wiring and mounting during the hdtv and stereo component installation.
Jerry always did top-quality work, never taking shortcuts or allowing others working with him on projects to do so. We could always count on him to do the job right—he was very hard working and good at what he did. Thank you Jerry for all of your outstanding work and craftsmanship during your productive lifetime. You will definitely be missed!
Dedicated to Jerry Bell, one of the finest, hardest-working craftsmen who ever lived.