Born in Grand Island, Nebraska, she was a daughter of the late William (Bill) Behrens and Lorraine (Pixie) Paustian. Carol graduated from Grand Island High School in 1966, and later received her BA from Mesa State in English literature. Carol worked as a pharmaceutical chemist in Denver for 10 years, retiring in 1989 when she made her transition to the Bell Ranch in Silt, Colorado. While in Silt, Carol was passionate about writing poetry, gardening and horseback riding. Always up for an adventure, Carol traveled the world with her husband/soul-mate, Orlyn Bell, impacting many lives over the years as a loving wife, daughter, sister, mother and friend to all.
Carol’s father, a 99 year-old veteran from WWII, preceded her in death by 6 days. Being an avid writer, one of her proudest achievements was publishing a book with him in 2013. Titled Soldier #37483425 Memories of WWII, it is a fascinating biographical excerpt from his life and history.
Surviving are her husband of 32 years; brother, Robert Behrens; children, Michael Rausch, Lisa Rausch, Leslie BellFriedel, Eric Bell, Nathan Bell and Kira Plaine; grandchildren, William Rausch, Jacob Rausch, Isaiah Spears, Xavier Robinson, Katie Plaine and Sarah Plaine.
In lieu of a service now, there will be a Celebration of life gathering later in the year (to be determined). Memorial contributions can be made to the National Parks Conservation Assoc. (npca.org) or to the Alzheimer’s Association (at act.alz.org).
