Myrtle J. Bellis

Myrtle J. Bellis, age 96, died on September 23, 2013. Myrtle was born on October 15, 1916, in Hartford, Wisconsin, to the late Lloyd and Pearl (Harmer) Woodworth. She married Merlin Bellis on December 24, 1945; he preceded her in death on February 15, 1986. Myrtle was always completely devoted to her family. During World War II she was employed by the State of Washington, repairing gun sights. Myrtle was a member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ, serving two terms on the Board of Deaconesses. She also sponsored a child from India and a child from the Philippines. Myrtle enjoyed the simpler things of life, such fishing, eating tacos, and dining out.

Survivors include three: daughters, Barbara J. Smith, Mary Lee Miller, and Cindy S. Krueger; two sons, Merlin “Bud” Bellis, Jr. and Mark (Marla) Bellis. Myrtle is further survived by many beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren: Michael (Babs) Smith and their son Matthew; Steve Smith (Frankie); Jeff (Shari) Smith and their children Brendan and fiancée Gabrielle Lingnofski and Kailey and fiancé Luke Siebers; Chris Bellis and his daughters Ava and Lily; Leah Bellis and her daughter Celia; Jason (Donna) Bellis; Ben Krueger (Kim) and their daughter Evelyn; Anna Krueger (Seth Hess); Patty (Matt) Hager and their children Scarlett and John; Savanna Bellis and fiancé John Selwitschka; Luke (Tina) Bellis and their children Talon and Kira; Phil (Paula) Bellis and their children Jackson and Alayna; Scott (Joan) Bellis and their children Nick and fiancée Stacey; and J.B (Sara) and their daughter Evelyn.; Jyll Bellis (Stacey); her niece Judy (Pat) Sanders; a nephew, Lee Buck; and special friends Elmer Marx and Myra Mueller their families.

Myrtle was preceded in death by three sisters, Lucille (Lee) Buck, Dorothy Woodworth, and Joan Woodworth; a step-son Neil “Chum” Bellis.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 26, 2013 at FIRST CONGREGATINAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, 724 East South River Street, Appleton, with Rev. Jane Anderson officiating. Friends may directly at the church on Thursday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Appleton. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com.

The family would like to extend their gratitude her caregivers Paula Bellis, Amanda Knoke, and Rozzi Markgraf for their loving care. Also a special thank you to Janine Schrimshaw and E.J. Harrigan for the extra help and support. We will never forget your kindness.

Mom, you let us know you loved us in so many different ways. You made us feel important with encouragement and praise. You were always there when we needed you to comfort and to care; you will be in our hearts always and forever. Thank you for all you have done and given so generously. –Your children.