OBITUARY
Margaret Ellen Soell
September 21, 1932 – February 10, 2021
*** DUE TO WEATHER, SERVICE AND VISITATION TIMES HAVE CHANGED***
Margaret Ellen (Belshe) Soell was born on September 21, 1932 in Henley, Missouri (Cole County). She was the first child born to Omar Dewitt and Anna Mae (Jones) Belshe. She attended a one room schoolhouse and graduated high school at the age of 16. She graduated with a teacher’s certificate from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri at the age of 18, and began teaching in Lohman, where she met her future husband, Erwin F. Soell. Not long after, she contracted tuberculosis and spent a year in the hospital undergoing treatment, corresponding with him via daily letters. Following her recovery, they were married on June 18, 1955.
Margaret worked for Pet-Milk (later the Ritz) Company as a secretary, while Erwin finished medical school, internship, and residency. He served in the USAF and was stationed at Carswell AFB in Ft. Worth. Upon discharge in 1961, they relocated to Iowa Park and began private practice at Park Clinic. Their son, James Erwin, was born in February 1962 and daughter, Donna Rosemarie, was born in May 1964.
Margaret maintained her love of learning and teaching, and invested her gifts in serving the community. She was very active in their church, Trinity Lutheran, serving in various roles for 60 years. She was a dedicated member of the 23 Study Club of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs from 1968 until her death, and served as Santa Rosa District President from 1982 to 1984. An avid reader herself, she was a member of the Iowa Park Library Board, the Friends of the Library, and the Adult Literacy Council, tutoring adults who were learning to read. She was an active member of the Women of Rotary, Daughters of the American Revolution (Major Francis Grice Chapter), North Texas Genealogy Society, Garden Club, and CASA. Rotary International conferences provided opportunities for Margaret and Erwin to see the world, and they visited 5 continents together. She loved the arts, was a long-time supporter of the Wichita Symphony, and served as a docent at the Wichita Falls Art Museum. A gracious philanthropist, she contributed regularly to many local and national service organizations.
Margaret passed away peacefully in her home on February 10, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents and two younger brothers: James Ortan Belshe and Donald Ray Belshe. She leaves behind her husband of 65 years, Erwin F. Soell, M.D.; son J. Erwin Soell of Iowa Park; daughter Rosemarie and husband Robert Roose of Decatur; granddaughter Rebecca (Roose) and husband Calvin Fanning of Decatur; grandson Christian Roose, wife Allison, and her favorite great-grandson, Judah “Honey Bear” Roose of Bryan; her sister-in-law, Lois Belshe of Henley, MO; and many beloved nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.
Memorial services will be held at 3 PM on Monday, February 22, 2021 in the chapel at Dutton Funeral Home with visitation following. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Wichita Falls or a charity of your choice.
Services
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Memorial Service with Visitation Following
Monday, February 22, 2021
Memories
Margaret Ellen Soell
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYLinda Steger Merrick
February 23, 2021
Margaret was a special friend and we shared many hours working in Federation. Such a precious lady and servant. Love to Dr Soell and all the family.
Linda and Jim Bob Merrick
Janis Latimer
February 14, 2021
My prayers and sympathy extended to one of my favorite families in our town. I know Margaret will be missed by many, but most of all, her family . May God richly Bless and Keep watch over them, now and time to come. I never seen Margaret not have a smile when she greeted me. A lovely true American patriot. Margaret, Fly on and Rest in Peace. Now a new beginning awaits you.
Norms Dutton
February 14, 2021
Margaret was such a beautiful and kind lady. When we moved to Iowa Park in 1989 she was one of the first people we met. She will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to Dr. Soell and family.
Gay Williams
February 13, 2021
Mrs. Soell was one of the sweetest women I’ve ever known. She was always very thoughtful and kind, a gracious lady.
Helen Sorenson
February 13, 2021
Sorry for your loss but we all know Margaret is rejoicing in heaven with Jesus Margaret was always a pleasure to be around and loved by us all. When it was her time to lead lessons in evening circle it was always special. She always had extra props to go with lesson and very interesting.
Always ready to help with what ever was going on at church and she and I both loved to bring cherry delight to events. Quick and easy and beautiful plus good.
She will be greatly missed but is rejoicing in a job well done
May Gods peace fill your heart as you continue your journey here.
Janet Ramsey
February 13, 2021
When the Lord calls a loved one home he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. My memories of Margaret I shall always treasure. She was a true lady. Rest peacefully dear friend
Patty Lawrence
February 13, 2021
We will miss Margaret’s beautiful smile and her positive influence. She was such an inspiration for me. I know I’ll see her again. What a beautiful addition to heaven’s angles.
Linda Frazier
February 12, 2021
Ernie & Family,
I am sadden to heart of the loss of your Mama. I am praying for your family and all that loved her.
Linda Frazier (Cates)