Larry Glen Bell

Larry Glen Bell, 88, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026.

He was born to Glen Everett and Maurine Evelyn (Seaman) Bell on December 23, 1937, in Attica, KS. As an only child, Larry learned early the values of independence, hard work, and perseverance that would guide him throughout his life. He grew up helping his father and grandfather operate Bell’s Grocery, as it was known by many in the community, and taking music lessons from his mother, before graduating from Attica High School in 1955.

On May 11, 1958, Larry married the love of his life, Doris Bell. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and adventure. They were blessed with three children: Len, Larry Steven, and Leslee. Whether traveling, making memories in Branson, spending time on the golf course, casting a line in a favorite fishing spot, or creating beautiful paintings, Larry found joy in life’s simple pleasures and treasured every moment spent with those he loved.

Larry spent most of his life in Wichita, KS, where he built a successful career, raised his family, and formed countless lifelong friendships. He worked for more than 50 years with Coors of Kansas, earning the respect and admiration of coworkers and customers alike. Even in retirement, Larry could not resist returning to work to repair neon signs and lend a helping hand whenever needed. Family and friends often joked that he was impossible to retire. He was also credited with coining the name “Silver Bullet” for Coors Light, a story he enjoyed sharing over the years.

A devoted man of faith, Larry was a longtime member of Countryside Christian Church in Wichita, where he faithfully served and worshipped. He was also a proud Shriner who valued the fellowship and opportunities for service the organization provided. Music was one of Larry’s lifelong passions. As a member of the Dads of Dixieland Band, he shared his love of music with the community through his saxophone and clarinet. He also expressed his creativity through painting, creating artwork that reflected his appreciation for beauty, detail, and the world around him.

Above all else, Larry was a family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest pride was his family. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making others feel welcome. His kindness, sense of humor, storytelling, steady presence, and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris Bell; his sons, Len Bell and Larry Steven Bell; his daughter, Leslee Barrera; and his son-in-law, Rogelio “Roy” Barrera.

He is survived by his grandchildren, Stacia (Jerod) Barrett of Cottonwood Falls, KS; Garrett Gilliland of Mulvane, KS; Talbott Jay (Lexi) Gilliland of Mulvane, KS; Logan Bell of Medicine Lodge, KS; Lucas Bell of Medicine Lodge, KS; and Bryn Bell of Richmond, CA; daughters-in-law Cindy Spade and Brenda Neal; ten great-grandchildren; and many extended family members, church family, and dear friends.

Larry will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his devotion to his faith, his talents as a musician and painter, his enjoyment of fishing and golf, and the many lives he touched through friendship, service, and kindness. His legacy lives on in the generations of family who were blessed to call him husband, dad, grandpa, and friend.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Countryside Christian Church. Viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Highland Cemetery in Medicine Lodge, KS.

Memorials have been established with Countryside Christian Church, 1919 S. Rock Rd., Wichita, KS 67207, and Midian Shrine Plane of Mercy, 130 N. Topeka, Wichita, KS 67203.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuaries — East Wichita.