Gregg Bell Obituary

Gregg Bell, 90, of Durango, Colorado, passed away suddenly on Monday, September 14, 2015, at his residence. Mr. Bell was born in Lubbock, Texas, on April 16, 1925, and graduated from Lubbock High School in 1943. After graduation, he joined the Army Air Corp and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant pilot. Gregg married his wife, Bette, 69 years ago in 1946. They lived in Lubbock for 25 years raising their four daughters. While in Lubbock, Gregg worked in the carpet business, both installing and selling. He was also a master woodworker and craftsman, establishing Bell Woodcraft in 1955. He made fraternity and sorority paddles for Texas Tech University until 1970.

To satisfy his love of the outdoors he and Bette moved to Durango and found their perfect spot on the Florida River in 1971. Their home was the center of many happy family gatherings. Gregg received his real estate license in 1972. His specialty was selling ranches due to his great appreciation for the land and all it has to offer. He worked for Rod Turner Realty in 1973 until he opened his own office, Bell Realty in 1974. Mr. Bell also managed the Land Title office in Durango and worked for Centennial Savings and Loan as a loan officer. In 1991, he and Bette bought a 1906 Victorian house in New Braunfels, Texas, and worked diligently restoring it to its original grandeur with exquisite woodwork throughout. Gregg researched archives to get the home placed on the Texas Historical Designation in 2004.

Gregg loved the Lord, his family and friends. He devoted his life serving others and glorifying God.

Mr. Bell is survived by his wife, Bette, his daughters Carla Galanos (Chris) of Dallas, TX, Niesha Bell of Austin, TX, Desiree' Bell and Lorelei Almond of Durango. Grandchildren include Nicole Rowell (Brad), Mark Galanos (Kari), Peter Lingamfelter (Hannah), Samantha Lingamfelter, and Julia Almond. His great-grandchildren include Jackson and Lilly Rowell, Rylie and Brandon Galanos, and Otto Lingamfelter.

A private memorial service will be held at the family home on the Florida River. Condolences may be sent to Bette Bell, 350 Northeast Circle, Durango, CO 81301. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in the name of Gregg Bell to Bible Study Fellowship, 19001 Huebner Road, San Antonio, TX 78258.