Memorial

Cris Harlen Sell, 79, of Marion, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, from complications following heart surgery. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Cedar Memorial Chapel Stateroom. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Burial will follow the service and take place at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.  

Cris was born July 9, 1946, in Cedar Rapids to Ray and Phyllis “Jackie” Sell. He graduated from Washington High School in 1964 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1972. On January 28, 1968, Cris married Judith Jones, the love of his life. Together they shared many years of marriage built on laughter, loyalty, and a deep love for their family. Cris worked for more than 25 years at MSI Mold Builders before retiring at age 65. After retirement he devoted more time to one of his greatest passions, art. He became an incredibly talented and accomplished artist, creating pieces that reflected both his creativity and the joy he found in life. 

He loved art, traveling and vacationing, and spending time with family and friends. He had a warm smile, an easygoing nature, and a great sense of humor. He had a way of making those around him laugh and feel welcome. Above all, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather.

Cris is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Lori (Fred) Young and Brian (Lori) Sell; grandchildren Ava, Skyler, and Connor Sell; step-grandchildren Patrick (Kelsey), Shea, and Howie Campbell; and his beloved dog, Lily. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Phyllis “Jackie” Sell, and his sister, Sue Christiansen.

Cris will be remembered for his kindness, creativity, humor, and the many smiles he brought to those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Cris’s memory.