John J. Bellavia Sr. 96, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on Friday March 25, 2011 in Las Vegas, NV. Born in Florence, PA, he was the son of the late Charles and Josephine (Pugliese) Bellavia.

John moved to Niagara Falls, NY at the age of twelve with his family. He attended local schools and served in the Civilian Conservation Corps. In the early 1940's, he worked as a furnace operator at Union Carbide in Niagara Falls, and later as a truck driver for the former Oldbury Chemical Company in Niagara Falls until his retirement in 1977. John moved to Las Vegas, NV in 2001 where he currently resided. He was an avid sports enthusiast and devoted New York Yankee fan. John was an outstanding softball player, and played in various local softball leagues. In his leisure time, John also enjoyed bowling and golfing.

Mr. Bellavia is survived by his son John J. (Dolores) Bellavia Jr. of Las Vegas, NV, three granddaughters, Michele (Richard) Justiana, Julie Bellavia and Melinda (Shane) Taylor, four great-grandchildren, Nicholas and Jacob Justiana, Olivia and Luke John Taylor, one brother Charles (Judy) Bellavia of Las Vegas, NV and several nieces nephews and cousins. He was also predeceased by his wife Julia (Gariano) Bellavia and later wife Victoria (Shiah) Bellavia, and brother Sam Bellavia.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 1-4 and 6-9 p.m. at M.J. COLUCCI AND SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL 2730 MILITARY ROAD NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will begin on Thursday March 31st at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Parish at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church 27th St. and Independence Ave. Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Joseph Carlo officiating. Interment will be held in St. Joseph's Cemetery Niagara Falls, NY. If desired memorial offerings may be made to St. Jude Shrine 512 W. Saratoga Street Baltimore, MD 21201. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for on-line guest register.