Russell J. Bellis, 79, of Butler, passed away Wednesday evening, October 25, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born May 21, 1938 in Butler, he was a son of the late Joseph J. Bellis and Florence M. Lynn Bellis.
Russell was a machinist for Pullman Standard for 27 years, retiring in 1982 when the plant closed. He enjoyed nature and the outdoors especially golf. In early years he spent time time hunting and fishing. He loved spending time with his family and friends and especially enjoyed walking with his daughter every day and cooking for his grandchildren every Saturday night. He was a member of the Elks golf league and was past president of the Pullman golf league.
Surviving is his loyal companion, Virginia R. “Ginny” Flick.
1 son, Douglas L. (Ann Warren) Bellis of Chicora.
1 daughter, Michelle A. (Gerald L.) Raabe of Butler.
3 grandchildren: Shayla L. Benninger and her fiance’ Robbie D. Engleka, Eric J. Raabe and Nathan J. Raabe, all of Butler.
1 brother, Gary J. (Carol) Bellis of Butler.
4 nephews and his special puppy Buddy.
Family and Friends will be received at the Geibel Funeral Home, 201East Cunningham Street, Butler, from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Friday and from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Saturday. Funeral Services for family and friends will then be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the Funeral Home. His cousin, the Rev. Jim Lynn, will officiate. Internment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Butler.
In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 320 Bilmar Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15205, or the American Heart Association, PO Box 15210, Chicago, IL 60693, or to the Butler County Humane Society, 1015 Evans City Road, Renfrew, PA 16053.