Tributes paid as former Whitchurch businessman dies aged 80
Tributes have been paid to a man who was well-known for his work in the community in his home town.
John Stuart Bellis, who was heavily involved with a number of organisations in Whitchurch, has died at the age of 80.
Among his notable achievements was the building of the first Whitchurch Rotary Club Christmas float, his appearance as the club's first Santa, and fundraising for a number of organisations. Mr Bellis' son, Jonathan, said he was "a Whitchurch son through and through" and has left a lasting legacy.
"Whitchurch was my father's passion. He grew up in Whitchurch, lived here, had a monumental number of friends, and was a significant employer in the 1960s through to the 1990s," he said.
Born in Whitchurch in July 1935, Mr Bellis attended Sir John Talbot's Grammar School and Wrekin College before joining the Army.
He later joined his father in the family building business Whitchurch (Salop) Contractors Ltd and later ran it together with Bellis Joinery Ltd.
He was a member and chairman of Whitchurch Round Table, Whitchurch 41 Club and Whitchurch Rotary Club, and was also was active in local sport having been a member, captain and chairman of Old Whitchurchians/Whitchurch Rugby Club.
He played rugby for Shropshire and was a member and captain of Hill Valley Golf Club.
Jonathan added: "
He was instrumental in many other charitable and fundraising events within Whitchurch, notably raising funds for the local disabled, elderly, swimming pool and rugby club.
"He was great fun, very genuine and very generous. He was strict but pointed us in the appropriate direction. He had high standards and expectations, and was a great encourager.
"He will be greatly missed by his immediate family and many friends."
Mr Bellis died at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital on December 21.
He leaves his wife of 55 years Pat, sons Jonathan and Jeremy, and grandsons James and Justin. A funeral service will be held at St Alkmund's Church in Whitchurch on January 11 at 11.45am.
