Dr. Jacob M. Bellig

Dr. Jacob M. Bellig Feb. 16, 1916 - Oct. 31, 2013 Resident of Danville, CA Dr. Jacob M. Bellig went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, October 31, 2013. He successfully finished the race of 97 years for which God had called him. Jacob was born in in Williamsport, PA to Elwood and Ida Bellig on Feb 16, 1916 and lived there until he was 21 years old. He then went to college in Nyack, NY where he met his wife of 69 years, Charlotte. After graduation, the couple moved to San Jose, CA where he served as pastor for 14 years at Neighborhood Church of San Jose. While in San Jose, he also attended San Jose State University (BA) and Stanford University (MA). In 1954, the family moved to San Leandro, CA when "Jake" became senior pastor of Neighborhood Church of Oakland. The Church moved into a new facility seating 1,500 in Castro Valley in December 1969. He helped pioneer "illustrated sermons", an innovative idea that blended drama with a sermon as a means of teaching Biblical truths. Major productions for Christmas and Easter drew thousands of people to celebrate Christ's birth and resurrection. Jake served as senior pastor for 42 years and was succeeded by his friend and associate pastor, Dr. Larry Vold. Jake is succeeded by his sons and daughter-in-laws-Charles (Judy), James (Loretta), John (Susan), as well as 8 grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren. A celebration of Jake's life will be held at 11:00am, Saturday November 23, 2013 in the sanctuary of Neighborhood Church of Castro Valley. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Neighborhood Next, c/o Neighborhood Church of Castro Valley; 20600 John Drive; Castro Valley, CA 94546. Deer Creek Funeral Services (510) 317-7890