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Ray Francis Bellows of Sun City, Fla., passed away on Oct. 10, 2020, at the grand age of 95. Ray was born in Walthill on May 16, 1925, the son of Vernon "Bud" Bellows and Louise (Boughn) Bellows. He graduated from Blair High School in 1942, and matriculated at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Ray paused his college education to enlist in the U.S. Navy in 1943. After serving in the South Pacific Theatre during the war, he resumed his studies, and graduated in 1949 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

He married Abbie Ann (Vaughan) Bellows in September, 1950, at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Blair. She preceded him in death as did his parents and brothers Vernon Bellows, Jr. and Stephen Bellows. After a successful corporate business career, Ray entered the entrepreneurial world where he and his daughter, Suzanne, co-operated her art business, Blue Palms Fiber Art, until he retired last year at the age of 94. Ray was a beloved father, an avid sports fan and was renowned for his charm, spirit and intelligence.

Ray is survived by his dear friend, Ellen Peck; his three daughters: Virginia, Suzanne, Victoria and their spouses; his son, Ray; his grandchildren: Brian, Caroline, Michael, Emily and Zach; his sisters: Nancy (Frank) Gabby and Cindy (Sam) Bird; and his sister-in-law, Phyllis Bellows.

A private service will be held at a later date.

~~~Obituaries courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair, Nebraska Public Library~~~