Hanns J. Bell

Hanns J. Bell, 87, of Huntley, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Meadowbrook Manor in Bolingbrook. He was born on February 26, 1938, in Stuttgart, Germany, the son of Hans and Ursula (Korthen) Bell. Hanns became a proud U.S. citizen in the early 1960s. On July 9, 1977, he married the love of his life, Mary Ann Gebel, in Washburn, Illinois. Hanns earned a degree in engineering and served in the U.S. Army for two and a half years. He worked as an engineer for NASA before deciding to pursue his dream of being self-employed. A true jack of all trades, there was little he couldn’t do or learn. Over the years, he owned and operated several businesses. In 1988, with help from Mary Ann, he physically built their family home—a lasting symbol of his skill and determination. A passionate aviator, Hanns held both a private pilot’s license and an instructor’s license. He loved to fly, often with one of his children in the pilot’s seat while he flew as the instructor (right/co-pilot seat). His love for aviation also included building and flying radio-controlled airplanes. He traveled with his RC planes and flew them in 43 states. Hanns also had a lifelong passion for model trains, especially designing and building the landscapes and terrain they traveled through. He poured immense creativity and care into every tiny mountain, tunnel, and tree. Another favorite pastime was chess. He taught all of his children to play, always starting out by “spotting” them his queen—until they were good enough to no longer need the advantage. The game was a way he connected, challenged, and encouraged his children. Many nights he could also be found playing board games (Aggravation was a favorite) and cards with his family. Hanns also had a deep love for cooking, often bringing people together with his favorite homemade dishes. He was especially known for his crepes. But nothing stirred the family quite like his steamed bread dumplings (Dampfnudeln). Whenever he made them, it was as if a signal had gone out—his adult children within driving distance would find their way home, drawn by the comforting aroma and the promise of a shared meal. For Hanns, food was love, and the kitchen was another way he expressed it. At home, Hanns found joy in his flower garden and spent many peaceful hours watching birds at the feeders outside the kitchen window. He especially cherished time with his grandchildren, who loved climbing into his lap to hear his stories. His warm laughter and playful spirit will be dearly missed. Hanns is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Mary Ann; his children: Concetta Marie (Ken) Clark, Richard Matthew (Dawn) Bell, William Wayne (Barb) Webster, Barbara Jean (Steve) Clark, Hanns Christopher (Iona) Bell, and James Timothy (Donna) Bell; his grandchildren: Shamrock Clark, Piper Clark, David Clark, Zachary Bell, Violet Bell, Arianna Bell, Su Ann Panariello, Rebecca Webster, Taylor Webster, Darling Buck, Simon Buck, Jonathan Sennett, Delaney Sennett, Ryan Widmer, Cassandra Keller, Rochelle Ingram, Mathew Bell, and Xander Bell; many great-grandchildren; and his siblings: Connie Morich, Monica Mate, and Peter (Eva) Liehr. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Alexander Bell. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 29, from 9:00 a.m. until the 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. Burial of ashes with military honors will follow in a private ceremony on July 30th at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Hanns J. Bell

February 26, 1938 - July 17, 2025