MARIE AUGUSTA BELL, age 98, of Luverne, died Monday, May 28, 2012, at the Parkview Manor Nursing Home in Ellsworth. She was born September 7, 1913, in Blue Grass, IA, to Fritz and Bertha (Voss) Lafrenz. Marie was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. The family moved to Rock Co. in 1918. She graduated from Rock Co. rural school in 1927; and from Luverne High School in 1931. She graduated from Luverne Normal School in 1932 and attended Mankato and Duluth State Teachers Colleges. Marie taught rural schools in Rock Co. until 1948. She traveled in all states west of the Mississippi and Mexico, Catalina & Canada.
Marie married Harley Bell on June 25, 1948, in Pipestone. The couple farmed in Rock Co. until 1963. In 1980, they moved into Luverne. Marie moved to the Blue Mound Towers in 1986.
She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, in Luverne; the GLCW; and the Luverne VFW and Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed doing volunteer work, growing flowers and traveling in her early years.
Marie is survived by her sister-in-law, Viola Lafrenz, Bloomington; and nieces & nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harley, on December 6, 1982; daughter, Gloria, son, Rex; four brothers; and one sister.
Visitation will be from 5-7 pm Thursday at the Dingmann Funeral Home in Luverne; and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Funeral will be 1 pm Friday at Grace Lutheran Church, in Luverne, officiated by Rev. Ron Nichols. Burial will be in the Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne.

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