JoAnn Carol Bell of Edgemont, SD, passed away December 20, 2009, at Rapid City Regional Hospital surrounded by all of her children and numerous loved ones. JoAnn was born the ninth of ten children to William and Gzina (Muilenberg) Plooster, in Mitchell, SD, July 6, 1940. She came into the world with a bang and ascended into heaven with her Lord in the same fashion. As a young lady, her family resided in Sioux Falls, Vancouver WA, Bellflower, CA, and finally settled in Crawford, NE. It was there that she met Alan Leroy 'Bud' Bell. On August 5, 1958 they married and from this union six children were born, Christine Denise; Patricia Marie; Michael Alan; Brenda Kay; Benjamin Kevin and David Todd.

In 1962, Alan and JoAnn moved to Edgemont where she would become an involved member of the community. She enjoyed caring for many young children, volunteered for numerous activities, had a passion for bowling and waterskiing, and was always an advocate for the less fortunate. Her competitive spirit and effervescent personality led to many life long friendships that continued until her passing.

Throughout the years the guiding force in her life remained her six children. There was rarely a conversation that would pass without the mention of their lives and activities. The greatest joy of her life was the time she spent raising them and enjoying their accomplishments. She always encouraged her children to be home for Christmas and Holidays which resulted in many lasting memories. Her kitchen was always filled with the smell of prime rib and holiday spirit. Discussions lasted well into the evening and the sound of laughter was never far. Her door was always open for a friend or a stranger.

In the spring of 1979, JoAnn acquired ownership of the Stockman's Bar. While simultaneously running a successful business, she also found time to nurture relationships from past and present and never turning down an opportunity to meet someone new. Stockman's was run on the foundation of family and friends. The slogan read "where good friends meet".

The Stockman's closed in 1990 and JoAnn became semi retired, spending some of her time working for PJ's HI-D-Way and even more time rediscovering her faith.

JoAnn is survived in death by her children, Christine and Kris Barker of Las Vegas, NV; Patricia and Dennis Ward of Ponca City, OK; Michael and Brenda Bell of Boise, ID; Brenda Carlson, of Alliance, NE; Benjamin Bell of Elko, NV; David and Denalee Bell of Boise, ID; brothers, Lowell (Elaine) Plooster of Minneapolis, MN; Don (Pat) Plooster of Forest Lake, MN: William (Muriel) Plooster of Harrisburg, SD; sister Beverly Freimuth of Littleton, CO; 14 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren as well as a host of relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Dale; Roger; Dennis and two sisters, Lee Sheldon and Barbara Feld.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m., Sunday, December 27, 2009, at the United Church in Edgemont.

Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 28, 2009, at the United Church. Interment will follow at the Edgemont Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in JoAnn's name.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Edgemont. Written condolences may be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.