Rachel Bell

Rachel Ann Bell, (VanderMaten), 65, of Renwick, IA, and longtime resident and community member of Fort Dodge, IA, was born on December 4, 1958, in Sheldon, IA. She passed away peacefully on July 3, 2024, at Iowa Specialty Hospital in Clarion, IA. As a way to continue giving after her passing – Rachel donated her body to the Iowa Donor Network.

Rachel is survived by her beloved husband of 27 years, Russell Bell of Renwick, IA; her children, Matthew (Colleen) McCurdy of Schaumburg, IL, and their daughters, Mya and Madeline; Kelli McCurdy of Renwick, IA, and her cherished granddog, Vinny; Tawnie Bell (William “Olie” Estlund) of Fort Dodge, IA, and their children, Alex, Emma, Eillie, and Augustus. She is also survived by her sister Ruth Babbitt (Mark) of Fort Dodge, IA; her brothers Roger VanderMaten (Shannon Peterson) of Fort Dodge, IA, and Ryan VanderMaten of Myrtle Beach, SC; as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willis and Arnola (Raak) VanderMaten.

Rachel found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, friends, and especially her grandchildren. She had a passion for singing and dancing, sharing her talents with the community throughout her life as a member of the Glee Club, Comedia Musica, Sonshine Singers, Drill Team Coach, and through her performances in musicals. Her love for the arts was evident in her roles as a dance instructor and choreographer for over 100 musicals. Recently, she brought joy and music to the local area by running DJ Bingo events.

A dedicated member of her church, Rachel devoted much of her time to the service of others. She served as the Christian Education Director at Trinity United Methodist Church for over 15 years and made a significant impact as a teacher’s aide at Fort Dodge Senior High School and at the Elementary School in Eagle Grove, working with special needs children.

Rachel also dedicated her time to volunteering for many local organizations, including a founding member of the Beacon of Hope and Icky’s Youth Organization and other community groups.

A visitation will be held on Monday July 8th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church. A celebration of Rachel's life will be held on Tuesday, July 9th at 11:00 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church with the family present at 10:00 AM on Tuesday. The funeral will be livestreamed via the Laufersweiler Funeral Home Facebook Page.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.

Rachel's kindness, creativity, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.