Austin "Buddy" C. Bell

Austin ‘Buddy’ C. Bell, Jr., 65, of Lewistown,went peacefully surrounded by his family after a courageous fight with cancer at 11:51 p.m. Sunday, May 28, 2017 at his home.

Born Jan. 6, 1952 in Lewistown, he was a son of the late Austin C. Bell, Sr. and Donna (Barnes) Bell, who died along with her infant daughter during childbirth.

Austin was also preceded in death by two brothers, Douglas D. Bell, Sr. and Craig Bell.

He is survived by: his wife, Susan Y. (Wilson) Bell, whom he married May 23, 2003; his daughter, Donna (Bell) Russler and husband, Denny, of Lewistown; a granddaughter, Hannah W. Russler, who was the light of her Poppy’s eye.

Also surviving are: his siblings, Steve L. Bell and wife, Joanne, of Florida, Connie E. Mendler and husband, Rich, of Burnham, Kathy Walsh, of Florida, Mona Kurth, of Florida, Debbie (Bell) Orndorf, of Lewistown, Jeffery S. Bell, of Selinsgrove; and a number of nieces and nephews; and a number of great-nieces and great-nephews.

Austin was a graduate of Lewistown Granville High School, Class of 1969. He had driven truck for Devecchis Concrete and was later employed by Lear Corporation. Most recently, he was a painter.

Earlier in life, he had attended Lewistown Assembly of God Church.

Buddy enjoyed playing softball and had been on a number of dart and pool shooting teams. He was a Steelers and NASCAR fan. Buddy was known for being a jokester and an avid deer hunter.

As per his wishes, a private memorial and graveside service with friends and family will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Hoenstine Funeral Home, Inc., 75 Logan St., Lewistown.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com.

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