Thomas K. Bellich

Thomas K. Bellich, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, of Savanna, IL, passed away on January 2, 2025, surrounded by his family. A man of deep wisdom and humor, Tom left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Born on January 2, 1932, in Savanna, IL, Tom was the youngest of eight children born to Stephen and Mary (Notz) Bellich. He grew up in Savanna, where he attended Savanna Schools and graduated from Savanna High School in 1950. Shortly after graduation, Tom answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy. From 1951 to 1955, he served with distinction as a Personnelman during the Korean War aboard the USS Hollis and USS Cambria.

After his military service, Tom returned to his hometown, where he met and married Geraldine Cramer. Together, they raised five children. They later separated. Tom’s love for history inspired him to pursue a degree in history education, and he became known for his remarkable knowledge and linguistic curiosity, famously able to say "thank you" in 27 languages. Later in his life Tom used his love for history as a trolley tour guide in Galena, IL, for a number of years.

Tom's professional life was spent as a rural mail carrier in Savanna, where he worked for 27 years. He balanced his demanding job with a deep involvement in his children’s lives, coaching their sports teams and creating cherished memories through family vacations and adventures. Tom’s children fondly recall road trips to California and summer vacations at Lake Mills, WI. They will miss listening to him play silent night on his harmonica. Tom cherished the time he spent with his grandkids and great-grandkids.

An active athlete in his younger years, Tom was a semi-serious fast-pitch softball player, competing across the Midwest. He also played with his family at family reunions, until he broke his foot at 65. In high school he excelled at basketball, the high hurdles and he held records in the high jump. To some who knew him Tom was known as Flex, a nickname he earned. His lifelong passion for gardening began in childhood, tending to his father’s vineyard, and continued into his later years as he cultivated flowers and plants with care and pride. For years he continued the family tradition of winemaking. Tom loved the outdoors, especially when he was duck hunting. Known for his humor, kind spirit, and knack for storytelling, Tom found joy in connecting with others and imparting his wisdom. He was a lifelong member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, and a member of the Savanna American Legion.

Tom is survived by his five children: Ed (Jen Schueller) Bellich of Davenport, IA, Marty Bellich of Hanover, IL, Teresa (Mark) Traum of Mt. Carroll, IL, Andrea (Steve) Drolema of Aurora, IL, and Sabrina (Dan) Bearce of Montgomery, IL; eight grandchildren: Karissa, Jacob, Trace (Silke), Troy, Jordan, Eli, Daniel (Elisabeth) and Nicolas; seven great-grandchildren: Parker, Hailie, Skylar, Wendy, Aamani, Upton, and Ashton; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Mary; his seven siblings: Marie, Albert, Lorraine, Emil, Nick, Paul, and Lois; and his twin granddaughters, Anna and Maria.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Savanna, IL. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, January 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and on Thursday, January 9, from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m., at Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna.

Bless you, Love you Dad! Laku noc