Keith Randal Bell

Keith Randall Bell was brought into this world, a 5th generation Texan, on September 23, 1957 in Houston. His mother was Charlsie Maxine Bell (Borchelt) and his father Curtis Ray Bell. He attended Ascension Lutheran Church and School until 3rd grade. In 1968 The Bell’s moved to Conroe, where he would live the remainder of his years. Keith became an Eagle Scout and graduated from Conroe High class of 1976. He attended Texas A&M where he was a Cadet and earned a BS in Industrial Distribution in 1980.

He took on many roles including downhole field hand for Baker Hughes Company, farmer, rancher, cattleman, truck driver, air cooled VW mechanic, woodworker and salesman. In 1991 he opened and operated The Outback Antique Village and Flea Market and continued to do so for 23 years. He was a loving and devoted son, his final role before really “retiring” was caretaker for both of his parents.

From a young age Keith had a love for history and all things with a story. He had a passion for classic VWs and WW2 vehicles - even doing a conversion of a 1973 type 181 “Thing” to a 1943 type 82 “Kubelwagen”. Being a member of The Sons of Confederate Veterans he had a special interest in The War Between The States and started re-enacting in the late 1970's in TX, LA, MS and VA. Sometimes he did Yankee impressions when needed, but mostly he did Confederate. He could do cavalry, infantry and artillery with ease. Later in the mid 80's he started doing Texas Revolution re-enacting and served as a crewmember of artillery.

He was a staple known as “Lord Red Beard” at the Texas Renaissance Festival for decades, as well as Sherwood Forest Faire and Dickens On The Strand. He was an adventurer and enjoyed the great outdoors and vintage campers.

Keith was a loyal and caring friend to many and always had a bright smile, huge hug and interesting story to share. He loved people for who they were, not what he could get from them. He was generous and happy to give just to spread joy and see items with history come back to life in the right hands. He took each day as a gift, that he was still “green side up”. Keith Bell has left a mark on this world which will not be soon forgotten.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestparkthewoodlands.com for the Bell family.