It is with heavy hearts but joyful spirits that we recall times shared with Don Bell, a co-founder of Rabbits Unlimited, who passed away on December 3, 2022. A kind and generous soul, Don had a larger-than-life presence that touched so many. Everyone will always remember the great times spent working on this annual fundraising event with him. Don’s tireless pursuit for this cause inspired all involved and made participation a truly rewarding experience.
Don was born and raised on the family farm in Saukville to Fred and Clara Bell on August 30, 1931. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1952-1954. Don married his beloved wife Eileen on November 11, 1953. Together they raised seven children. Sadly, two of his dear children passed away from complications of multiple sclerosis. Margie died at age 48 and Rich died at age 41. The pain of such losses inspired Don and his nephew Greg Bell to create this fundraising event 21 years ago. From very humble beginnings, Rabbits Unlimited has become one of the most successful and unique “Do It Yourself” fundraising organizations that benefit the National MS Society and the International Progressive MS Alliance. To date, Rabbits Unlimited has raised more than $711,000 to help fund research to cure MS. This disease not only has affected Don’s family but friends and neighbors as well. Don was actively planning and gathering donations and prizes for this years’ event when God called him home.
Don learned the meaning of hard work growing up on the farm. As he often said, you learn and get things done by trying-“even if it’s wrong!” He also learned that hard work led to good times. Among many memorable times enjoyed by Don were family parties, sheepshead, sharing his famous stories and jokes, dancing, sharing his love of the outdoors with his children, hunting, fishing, boating and snowmobiling! Don was a man who didn’t know what a stranger was because they were instantly his friend. Don learned discipline from being in the army. Don was especially proud that he and Eileen were able to start their own successful business, Cedar Lake Sales that thrived under his leadership. His sons, Al and Brian continue Don’s successful legacy today. He applied the values of hard work, discipline and fun in his life but never forgot what made life most important and that was his faith in God.
So long Don, we’ll never forget you and what you have meant to so many!
We honor him by continuing our efforts to “Cure MS.”
Email: info@rabbitsunlimited.org
Phone: 262-346-1345
Mail: PO Box 80184 Saukville WI, 53080