Elvin John (Johnnie) Bell

Elvin John (Johnnie) Bell, 95, died March 27, 2023, peacefully at his home in Wichita, Kansas. Johnnie was born April 27, 1927, in Wichita, Kansas to Fred Morton and Helen Rose (Sponsel) Bell. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 59 years, Laurestine Champ, their daughter Margaret Rose Vance, and grandson Luke DeBoise Stephen. Johnnie is survived by his children, Janet (Brad) Stephen, Mary Grace (Fred) Muck, Michael (Traci) Bell, Mark (Sherry) Bell and son-in-law Gregg Vance, 13 grandchildren, and 26 great grandchildren. As a young man Johnnie joined the US Marine Corp. After his military service, he attended Fort Hays State University. When he returned to Wichita, he followed in his Father’s and Grandfather’s footsteps in the flooring business. He established the Johnnie Bell Floor Company on Douglas Avenue, which continues in the fourth generation today by his son, Mark, as Bell Carpet and Floors. Johnnie was a lifelong devout Catholic raised in St. Joseph Parish as a boy, and then with Laurie raising their family in St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Along with his faith, his life’s devotion was to the love of his wife and family. Other outside endeavors included membership in many civic and charitable organizations including the Serra Club, Center of Hope and Newman University. In all aspects of his life, his contagious optimism made him a natural leader. He had the ability to light up every room he entered and lift those around him. He will be missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends. Rosary will be Tuesday, April 4th at 7:30 pm; Funeral Mass on Wednesday, April 5th at 10:30 am, both at St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. Services will be officiated by Father Dan Spexarth. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 3652 North Ridge Road, Wichita, Kansas 67205 or St. Joseph Catholic Church, 132 South Millwood, Wichita, Kansas 67213 in memory of Johnnie Bell. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.