Samuel Bellanca

Samuel M. Bellanca, 88, of Reading, passed away Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at 7:30 am in his residence. He is survived by his wife Gertrude R. (Gross) Bellanca. Born in Reading, Mr. Bellanca was the son of the late Guiseppi and Rosalia (Benigno) Bellanca. He was a member of Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church and served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Mr. Bellanca was a car repairman for Reading Company for 33 years and then a carpenter at Albright College for 6 years until his retirement in 1991. He was a good sportsman, playing basketball, baseball, softball for local establishments. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, especially Canadian fishing, the Opinicon River being one of his favorite spots. Mr. Bellanca played handball and racquetball during his middle years. He loved to spend extra leisure time at flea markets, yard sales and metal detecting. Mr. Bellanca enjoyed helping at St. Joseph RCC annual flea market in order to assist the Church. He was a life member of Mohnton Fish and Game Protective Association; Perry Township Game Association; North End Rod and Gun Club; North American Fishing Club; Local Haag Post; and held offices with the Federated Sportsmen's Society of Berks County. Mr. Bellanca was a loving and comical husband, father and grandfather and enjoyed helping other people. In addition to his wife Gertrude, He is survived by his sons Stephen M. Bellanca at home; Mark J. Bellanca, husband of Pamela Bellanca of Muhlenberg Township and his daughter Regina L. Wendel at home and his grandchildren Maria R. Bellanca; Craig M. Bellanca; Erika K. Wendel and Joshua M. Wendel and his great grandchildren Alexander and Skylar. Mr. Bellanca is also survived by 12 nieces and nephews and was preceded in death by 5 brothers and 2 sisters.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Chapel of Saint George at Gethsemane Cemetery Mausoleum, 3139 Kutztown Road, Laureldale, Monday, August 27, 2018 at 10:00 am. Reverend John J. Grabish, Celebrant. Inurnment will follow in Gethsemane Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church 1018 North 8th Street, Reading, PA 19604 in memory of Mr. Samuel M. Bellanca. Whelan Schwartz Funeral Home 444 North 9th Street, Reading is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.whelanschwartz.com