(erielack) Jerry Bellina

[David Ramos <dramos_@_juno.com>]

I just got this message from Henry Freeman regarding Jerry Bellina and I
know that some of you knew him and I wanted to pass it along.




Guys, Jerry died last night.  I just sent this message to the LDSIG list.
  
Henry 




I hate to use this forum for such bad news, but our good friend Jerry
Bellina 
passed away last night. Jerry, who had been battling cancer for a number
of 
years, had taken a turn for the worse the last few weeks.  Kay said that
he 
looked very peaceful at the end and "he isn't in pain any more." 

Jerry was one of the really great guys in this or any other hobby. He
always 
had a smile and always had time to help others. We were friends within
five 
minutes of meeting each other, and I will always cherish the memories of
our 
railroad time together. 

Although many of his ideas had not received great recognition, I think
his 
thoughts on mushroom design and command control were among the most 
innovative in the hobby. 

I don't think I ever heard him say a really harsh word about anyone, and
it 
seemed like anyone he met was almost instantly his friend. A number of us

were together in Kansas City for an operating weekend the last few days. 
Jerry had been looking forward to the trip for weeks, but increasing pain
had 
put him in the hospital. I spoke with him right before I left for KC, and
he 
said, "Tell everyone hello, and tell them I'll see them next year." That
was 
Jerry.  He always saw the glass as half full, not half empty, and he
never 
let this disease keep him from enjoying life. 

Kay was heading to the funeral home to handle the arrangements, but for
those 
of you in the greater New Jersey area she wanted me to tell you there
will be 
a memorial service on Saturday.  It will be held at 11 a.m. at Jerry's
church 

------------------------------