Hellen (Batt) Schell

Hellen (Batt) Schell was born in Farmer, Washington on July 28, 1921, to Jacob and Molly Batt. She’s the last survivor of one sister, Joann Kiehn and two brothers, Reuben Batt and Clarence Batt.

She graduated from Ritzville High School in 1940. She married Rudolph Schell in November of 1941. After working on farms, they moved to Bruce by Othello, Washington where Rudolph worked for Burlington Northern Railroad.

They moved back to Ritzville in the 70’s to the family home, after Rudolph suffered a stroke.

She is survived by two children, Patsy Greenwalt and husband Raymond of Ritzville, and Rick Schell of Costa Mesa, California. She had 3 grandchildren, Kristin Arlt and husband Brett, Renee Greenwalt, and Kevin Schell. One great grandchild, Yu-Kai Arlt.

She especially enjoyed her 75th high school reunion in May 2015.

She became ill in August 2015 and entered the East Adams Care Center in Ritzville, where she stayed until her death on September 10th.

She spent many years as a homemaker. She mastered the art of baking, sewing, crafts and gardening. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.

A special thank you to all the staff at East Adams Care Center, Ritzville, for the care and kindness Hellen received. Thanks to Dr. Bryant and all the providers that took care of her.

Visitation will be held Friday, Sept. 16, from 12 to 5 p.m. at Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville and Saturday, Sept. 17, at noon followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. Reception to follow at the Wheat Growers.