April 12, 1933- March 31, 2021
Lowell Bell was born April 12, 1933 to Lowell and Lottie (Rowe) Bell in Waco Texas. As a boy he taught himself to carve and earned money making wooden toys to sell to his neighbors. He dreamed of becoming a toy designer, but ultimately pursued a very different path. A 1954 graduate of Tuskegee Institute, he received a commission as a 2nd Lt. in the USAF. He entered pilot training at Marana AB, AZ in 1955 and received his wings with class 56-O at Laughlin AFB, TX in 1956. He served for 24 years flying a variety of trainer and fighter aircraft, including the F-105 Thunderchief in Vietnam. He retired as a Colonel and was recognized with numerous awards and decorations including the Legion of Merit, The Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Bronze Star medal.
Lowell met and married Pat (Barker), his wife of 62 years, while stationed in Sacramento CA. His assignments carried them to air bases around the USA and Europe, including the first assignment for an African American officer and his family in Iceland. After retiring from the Air Force in Colorado Springs, he worked for Capp Homes and Brown Disc Manufacturing Company, where he retired as VP of Operations.
He was active in the community, having served on several committees including the Colorado Springs Human Relations Committee and the El Paso County planning committee. He participated in the Big Brother program, was the immediate past President of the Huber L. “Hooks” Jones chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., and was also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
Throughout his life he continued to carve, developing his woodworking skills to include building furniture, carousel animals, houses, and even a Model A “Woody” style roadster. He was a long-time member of the Pikes Peak Model A Ford club.
Lowell was a big man with a big personality. His many friends and acquaintances reflected his affinity for people of all backgrounds.
He was preceded in death by his youngest daughter, Nina, and is survived by his wife, Pat; daughter, Deb Harrison (Torry); son, Dutch; and six grandchildren.
A private service will be held on Friday, April 23rd. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Mile High Flight, c/o of Hubert L. “Hooks” Jones chapter, Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., P.O. Box 370431, Denver CO 80237
Bill and Bonniegail Coleman
19 Apr 2021There are so many ways to remember wonderful Lowell – firstly, his wonderful, easy laugh with the twinkle in his eyes. Certainly, he was an inspiration to both of us. His military achievements speak to his dedication to country and family. Beyond that , he was an exemplary community volunteer always giving of himself and his resources. We enjoyed his talents: wood carving, antique restoration and always building something.
Along with his wonderful and charming wife, Pat, we so enjoyed lovely dinner parties at their home where we always met their interesting and talented friends. There were also AFA football tailgates, Black Forest barn dances, Super Bowl parties and even St. Patrick’s Day parades in his antique auto. We enjoyed him. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Charlotte Rider
20 Apr 2021It is hard to imagine that someone so alive is no longer with us. I met Lowell, or Uncle Lowell as I refer to him, at Brown Disc. He is remembered as a warm, warm person. Since my younger (!) sister first met him, she became known to him as Eva Jr. (My mother’s name is Eva.) In the spirit of fairness, I was referred to as Eva Jr Jr.
Work, barbecues at Lowell and Pat’s and at our place, the Bell’s are family.
Uncle Lowell, you will be truly missed.
Angenette Nordqvist
21 Apr 2021You will be missed… ♥
Freeman Gault
23 Apr 2021I didn’t know Lowell when we were in the Air Force. I got to know him while attending periodic African American military Senior Officer meetings to discuss new policies and procedural changes to issues affecting retired life. Shortly, thereafter, a friend invited him to join us for lunch. We had a wonderful time together, and Lowell was added to the lunch group as a permanent member. We developed a special bond and friendship. Our luncheons became the highlight of our monthly activities. Finally, we decided to invite the wives for a quarterly get together. Due to COVID, our last gathering was on a Zoom call in early February.
Connie and I have many fond memories of Lowell and Pat. When someone you care about becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
Lowell, you will be missed but not forgotten.
Connie and Freeman Gault
Paul M Isenstadt
24 Apr 2021Pat Vicki and I want to express our sorrow at the passing of Lowell. From the time I first met him for Sunday racquetball at Lynmar with Roy McClendon I always enjoyed his wit and the bantering especially with Roy. I know we shared Roy’s last minutes with you and Lowell and the moving ceremony for Roy at Arlington. Lowell was a gifted man a veteran with admirable service a great craftsman and how he loved his family Our thoughts are with you
Anonymous
29 Apr 2021Fantastic gentleman – – – a privilege for me to have known him. Dr. D. J. “Ock” Peterson
Anonymous
24 Jun 2023Pat, I now live in Boulder. Have thought of. You both since we lived in Duluth. Lowell was a wonderful man!