Dennis Richard Bell

Colonel Dennis Richard Bell retired USAF of Pasco Washington passed away in his sleep at his home in Cheney, WA at the age of 71. His two daughters Kristin and Brienn Bell, his wife Kathy, and Earl, our family dog were with him. Dennis entered the world on May 23, 1949, along with his twin brother Craig, in Sunnyside Washington. He graduated from Pasco High School, then attended and graduated from WSU Pullman where he joined ROTC and was selected ROTC commander. He distinguished himself after 30 years of service to his country, as a jet pilot flying T-38, as well as, instructing the T-38 and T-37 in the U.S. Air Force. His exceptional career took him around the world, including several assignments to Europe where he was Base Commander at R.A.F. Mildenhall England, and Division Chief of Operations Headquarters U.S. European Command at Stuttgart Germany. He also served as pilot to the General at Elmendorf A.F.B. Alaska. Assignments in the lower 48 included: Texas, California, Washington D.C. In Mississippi and Alabama he graduated at the top of his classes at Air War College and Air Command and Staff College. Then he was assigned as Squadron Commander in Colorado Springs at the Air Force Academy. Dennis earned the Meritorious Service Medal with Oakleaf clusters, Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service medal and the Air Force Commendation medal to name a few of his accomplishments. Speaking of accomplishments he became "Dad" to 3 children, Errin Michael his son, Brienn Jennifer, and Kristin Nichole, his daughters. Going full Circle, he returned to Eastern Washington to serve his 30th year in the USAF as Inspector General at Fairchild A.F.B where he retired. From there he continued to serve his country as Assistant Federal Security Director for screening with TSA at Spokane International airport. He is survived by his daughters Krissy and Brienn, his mother Betty, Grandsons Chuck and Tyler, Granddaughter Zoe, Son-in-Laws Matthew and Nathan, and his wife Kathy, and of course Earl. Interment ceremony took place on Friday April 30, 2021 at the Washington State Veterans Cemetary, Medical Lake. The private ceremony included Honor Guard, Taps, and Rifle Salute with family and friends in attendance.

Dennis Richard Bell

May 23, 1949 - March 7, 2021