Esther Louise Bell

October 20, 1917 - February 22, 2011

Esther was born on October 20, 1917, to Jack and Adah Hughbanks in Kimball, Nebraska. She married Prentiss (Doc) Bell on October 20, 1935. They moved to Seattle, WA. And then to Long Beach, CA. Because of the much drier climate, they moved to Bakersfield. Esther was a bookkeeper and worked for Dr. Smith in the Haberfelde building for several years in the late 40's. She also worked for many years at Greenfield Hardware Company, a job that she loved, in the 50's. Esther was a very talented leather craftsman, teaching at the Bakersfield Senior Center for some 30 years. She also judged the leather work at the Kern County Fair for several years until it got too hard for her to get around. She and Doc did a lot of traveling after Doc retired. Deep sea fishing was the focus of most of their trips. There were numerous trips to Nebraska to visit many friends and family. Even a trip to Hawaii that they thoroughly enjoyed. Esther also joined one of her nieces and a sister-in-law for a trip to New York. What a trip! Esther was one of the founding members of the Ben Austin Senior Center in Greenfield. She served as Secretary-Treasurer for several years until a fall forced her to retire Esther leaves one daughter Patt (Patsy) Sandrini and husband Robert, granddaughter Jennifer and husband Mike Giannini, grandson Bryon and wife Chyrill,. Much loved great-granddaughters Antonia, Aubree and Lexie Giannini, Cassie, Carlie and Callie Sandrini and one sure-to-be-spoiled great-great Grandson, Brayden Giannini. Also left to mourn her death is her most precious sister, Norma Henslee and many dear nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by baby boy Donald Jack, her parents and brothers, John, Dick and Fred Hughbanks and sister Frances Hughbanks. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to CASA, 2000 24th St., Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Mother will be truly missed more than words can possibly say. A Funeral service will be held Monday, February 28, 2011 at 3:00 PM at Hillcrest Memorial Park Chapel.

Arrangements under the direction of Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, Bakersfield, CA.