Joseph John Bellante, Sr.

Joseph John Bellante, Jr., age 90, of Mesa, died Monday, Jan. 16, at Brookdale Senior Living Center in Tempe. Born on Sept. 28, 1932, in Chicago, Ill., he was the son of the late Joseph and Ann Bellante. He was a graduate of Inglewood High School. He lived in Canoga Park, California, before moving to Mesa where he lived for more than 40 years. Throughout his life, he served as a Boy Scouts of America leader, enjoyed woodworking, and in his later years, he loved making jam to share with family and friends. One of his favorite activities was to visit with the neighborhood dogs and distribute treats, which earned him the nickname of the Dogfather. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was a Korean War veteran. He married the love of his life and his high school sweetheart, Frances (Fran) Ann Halsey, who proceeded him in death. Together they enjoyed square dancing and traveling in their motorhome. Joe is survived by his sons Jerry, Michael, and Robert; 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Art Bellante. A Celebration of Life service was held at Praise and Worship Center in Chandler on Jan. 27 and a private graveside burial service will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Mesa, Arizona. Legacy Funeral Home in Chandler provided funeral services.