Jack LeRoy Bellis

1943 - 2025

Jack LeRoy Bellis

June 15, 1943 - October 7, 2025

Jack LeRoy Bellis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant, was called home to his eternal rest on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the age of 82. He passed away peacefully in McCool Junction, Neb., having lived a life defined by unwavering love, dedicated service, and a generous spirit.

Jack was born on June 15, 1943, to the late Roy and Frankie (Mann) Bellis in Soldier, Iowa. He was a proud U.S. Army Veteran and dedicated many years of his professional life to Mead Lumber and Mead Rental before retiring in 2011.

A devoted member of First Lutheran Church in McCool Junction, Jack's deep faith was the cornerstone of his life and was perfectly reflected in how he cared for others. He was, first and foremost, a kind and loving husband and father. He made it his sacred mission to care for his beloved wife, Sherry (Bredenkamp), pouring out his strength and tenderness to support her through her failing health right up until his own passing. Jack and Sherry just celebrated their 57th year of marriage. They were married on October 6, 1968, at First Lutheran Church in McCool Junction. His love was immense, embracing all who knew him- he truly "loved big and knew no stranger." Jack was a constant, enthusiastic supporter of his family, beaming with pride at their every venture and accomplishment.

In his personal time, Jack had a passion for working with his hands. He took immense pride in his perfectly manicured yard and found peace and satisfaction in mowing. He was also a talented carpenter, leaving behind beautiful, tangible expressions of his skill and creativity in his woodwork. However, he may be most famously remembered for his legendary homemade ice cream, a sweet labor of love he joyfully shared with everyone from the children at church to countless friends and family.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry Bellis; their loving children, Drew (Abbey) Bellis, Heather (David) Stahr, and Todd (Christine) Bellis. Jack's legacy of love continues through his cherished grandchildren, Garrett, Dane, and Beiker Bellis, Brodie, Teigen, and Cambil Peterson, Cole and Ian Stahr, and Kalin Rodgers and Zoe Barnes. He is also survived by seven siblings, Anna May Steward, Carol (Ron) Surber, Virginia (Chuck) Witte, Dick (Susan) Bellis, Louise (Dave) Smith John (Kay) Bellis, and Danny (Sharon) Bellis; sister-in-law, Ann (Brian) Sipma; along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Bernard Steward.

A Funeral Service celebrating Jack's life and faith will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at First Lutheran Church in McCool Junction, Neb. Interment with military honors will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, east of McCool Junction.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 1 to 8 p.m., with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Metz Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials may be directed to the family for future scholarships at McCool Junction Public Schools.

Condolences may be left for the family at metzmortuary.com. Metz Mortuary in York is handling arrangements.