Florence Laverne Bell passed away on February 20, 2021 in Milwaukie, Oregon at age 96. She was born on May 9, 1924 in Portland, Oregon to Joseph Robert and Mary Katherin Nathan. Florence was one of 7 sisters, 2 brothers, and 3 half-brothers. She attended Sellwood School and Commerce High School in Portland, Oregon.
Florence met her loving future husband, Edwin, at Oaks Park Roller Rink in 1938. Edwin and Florence were married in January 1941, and moved to Clackamas, Oregon in 1946. In 1958 they took over running the family business, Bell’s Tropical Fish, which was located in northeast Portland. Edwin and Florence worked side by side running the business together until selling it in 1963. They spent 39 years living in Clackamas before making the move to Milwaukie.
Florence was an active member of the Gladstone Park Seventh-Day Adventist Church and also attended the Lents Seventh-Day Adventist Church. She was a very giving person with a big heart. Florence was the lady who always made sure to keep fresh peppermint patties in her purse so she could pass them out to people she saw during her day. She loved to make people smile. She devoted many of her hours to volunteering at the Gladstone Dorcas-Community Center, helping run the boutique at the annual camp ground meeting, and assisted in organizing groups at the annual Gladstone “Follow The Star” Christmas program.
Florence took pride in looking her best even if she wasn’t going anywhere. Her hair was always neatly done, not a single curl out of place and her outfits invariably would be picture perfect. Florence enjoyed all the little things life had to offer. In the mornings she liked to take bread and sprinkle it outside for the squirrels and birds to eat. Even nature's furry friends got to experience Florence’s bountiful generosity. She consistently wanted to give all that she could. When visiting her at her house you never left empty handed. She would find something you didn’t even know you needed.
Florence lived a very faith filled life. She would go to church as much as she could. Her love and bond was so strong that even up until her last days she prayed. She knew that whatever life would throw at her God was there for her. On holidays and family gatherings we would all bow our heads and Florence would lead us in prayer. She gave thanks for all that she had. Now she will continue her faith filled life in God’s Heavenly Sanctuary.
Florence was preceded in death by her husband Edwin, their eldest daughter Betty Lou Bell-Darnell; sisters: Kay, Margaret, Betty, Pearl, Gloria and Shari: brothers: William, John, Glenn, and Trent. She is survived by her children; Son, Edwin Bell Jr and his wife Arthene of Clackamas; Daughter Robbie Perry and husband Mike of Eagle Creek; Half-brother Erwin Nathan of Washougal;
Grandchildren: Cheryl Grantom (Steve), Kim Bell (Mike), Doug Bell, and Michelle Darnell (Aimee); Great grandchildren: Amanda, Nick, Melody, Tyler, LuAnn and Katelyn; and 4 Great-great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Florence’s life is planned for March 14th at 2:30 PM, at the Gladstone Park Seventh Day Adventist Church (8378 Cason Rd., Gladstone, OR).
While celebrating Florence’s life please remember to be safe and conscientious of Covid-19 guidelines. Please wear masks and practice social distancing.
Please note: There will be a live stream of Florence’s service for those that are unable to attend. It may be viewed at: www.gladstonepark.org or if you prefer it may also be viewed on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/gladstoneparkchurch
Remembrances to the Gladstone Park Dorcas-Community Center would be welcomed.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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