Duane Bell
Duane Erman Bell, 96, of New Concord, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on May 15, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Duane was born to the late Erman Starkey Bell and Mary Elizabeth Fleming Bell on April 26, 1930 in Otsego, Ohio. He was a 1948 graduate of New Concord High School. Upon graduating from Muskingum University with a degree in biology and history, he began a long career in scientific research and teaching. He received his master’s degree in botany from Miami University (Ohio), then served two years with the Army Chemical Core based at Fort Detrick. After his military service, he taught high school science in Millersport, Ohio, did graduate research at Brown University, taught at the University of Dubuque, then subsequently began his tenure with the Battelle Institute in Columbus, Ohio. While at Battelle, he worked on numerous projects including developing plants that could survive zero gravity. He was featured on the cover of Life Magazine for successfully growing sweet potatoes fit for space.
While in Columbus, Duane completed his Ph.D. in plant physiology from The Ohio State University and was co-founder of Resource Dynamics, a company that focused on renewable energy. Dr. Bell did post-doctorate work at the University of Colorado Boulder, and ended his career as an inspirational and dedicated science teacher at Meadowbrook High School.
Duane met the love of his life Jane Herrmann in 1960 through a Reader’s Digest dating survey. The pride and joy of Duane’s life was his family, being the most supportive dad to his daughters. He was present at every 4-H, equine, music, and sporting event, and continued this as much as possible with his grandchildren. He also was incredibly supportive of Jane’s musical talents and pursuits, requiring transfers of several grand pianos. He enjoyed telling stories with his witty humor and riddles, eating unusual food combinations, and traveling with his wife. Duane always had a love of farming, and enjoyed raising unique breeds of cattle and sheep. An avid woodworker, he built a large shop in his home where he enjoyed planning numerous projects, studying German carpentry, and sharing this knowledge with his Amish friends. He loved to serve his community, and was a long-time member of Ruritan. As a faithful servant, he was an 83-year member of the New Concord United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his loving wife Jane of nearly 65 years, Daughters: Sondra Bell (Mark Israel) of New Concord, Ohio; Janeen Bell-Dawson (Troy Dawson) of Zanesville, Ohio; Karen Bell of Carlisle, PA; Grandchildren: Brianna McNeil (Conner), Janessa Dawson, Annelise DeYoung, Janae Frey (Josh), Stefan Israel (Marissa), Duane A. DeYoung; Greatgrandchildren: Calvin and Charlotte McNeil; Brother: Leslie Bell and several nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Carl Bell, Shepherdstown, WV and sister Beth Quinn, Brilliant, Ohio.
The love and kindness that he poured into his family will forever be in our hearts. As we mourn the loss of this incredible man, we are also deeply grateful for the opportunity to have shared in his earthly journey. Though physically gone, his influence will impact us forever. The family would like to thank numerous caregivers and Shriver’s Hospice for the wonderful care and support they provided. A Celebration of Life service will be held at New Concord United Methodist Church on June 6, 2026, 12:00 noon. Calling hour will be at 11:00 and a reception will follow the service.
www.farusfh.com
