PALMER TWP., Pa. — Charles “Zeke” Bellis III, a township businessman and elected member of the township supervisors, has died, the township confirmed Monday afternoon.
In a Facebook post, Palmer Township’s Municipal Government account described Bellis as a “dedicated public servant, family man, and member of our community.”
Supervisors' Chairman Jeffrey Young said Bellis had been battling cancer.
For years he was a youth football coach and had served as president of the Palmer Township Athletic Association.
"He was a really good public servant. He really cared," Young said.
Bellis was elected in November 2023 to a six-year term on the board of supervisors. His term was to run until Dec. 31, 2029.
"He was only here (on the supervisors' board) for one year and eight months, but he worked harder than anyone I ever saw at his township job," Young said. "He was relentless and doing a great job."
An Easton Area High School graduate, Bellis was well known in the township as the owner of Easton Beverage and active in the athletic association and recreation board.
The township said its flag at the municipal building will be flown at half-staff until Bellis' funeral.
Also, the regularly scheduled supervisors meeting set for Tuesday has been canceled, the township said.
"Zeke's passion for his role as supervisor and dedication to the township will be missed," Supervisor Michael Brett said.
The Palmer Municipal Fire Department paid tribute to Bellis on its social media.
"Zeke was a tremendous supporter of our department and our mission to serve the community," it said. "His dedication to Palmer Township and its residents was unwavering, and his leadership will be greatly missed."