In Loving Memory of John Craig Bellamy, Jr.
March 20, 1978 – June 14, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Craig Bellamy, Jr., age 47, of Waukesha, Wisconsin. John passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
John was a kind-hearted, loving, and hilariously funny soul who touched the lives of so many. His presence brought joy, laughter, and warmth to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
A dedicated and hard worker, John poured his heart and soul into everything he did—a quality deeply cherished by those around him. His loyalty, generosity, and authenticity were traits that made him beloved by friends, family, and colleagues alike.
John had a wide range of hobbies and passions. He loved working on cars, hunting, fishing, volleyball, and camping. He was always up for a game of pool, video games, or a round of paintball or airsoft. He was an enthusiastic Dungeons & Dragons player, a diehard Packers and Brewers fan—he had many fond memories attending games at the stadiums. He also managed a friendly competition of Fantasy Football we hope to continue in his honor. He was an incredible dancer who could light up the floor—often being the last one off it. One of his most exhilarating experiences was skydiving, and he often said how much he would have loved the chance to do it again.
John was especially proud of earning his bachelor’s degree in Business Management. He also played a pivotal role in establishing the nonprofit Waukesha Makerspace, serving as a founding board member—leaving a lasting legacy in the community he cared so much about.
He was a gifted storyteller, and no one could spin a tale quite like John. Whether it was recounting deer camp adventures, catching fish with his bare hands, or delivering spot-on impressions, he could leave a room in stitches. He loved Stephen King novels and, in true storyteller fashion, even wrote a few books of his own—though he kept them mostly private.
John never lost his sense of humor, even in his final days. He brought laughter and light to everyone who visited him, often cracking jokes, flashing a wink, or even giving a cheeky finger gesture with his signature grin. His wit and humor will be among the things most missed.
John is survived by the love of his life, Tanya Bragg; his mother Nellie (Mike) Helton; sister Crissy (Colin) McCormack; brother Joseph Bellamy (Eiko); stepsisters Melissa Rodenberg and Crystal Helton; and Tanya's family- Moody, Linda, and Jason Bragg, and Tami and Jason Kramer who embraced him as their own. He also leaves behind beloved nieces and nephews: Reba McCormack, Nick (Sara) McCormack, Gia Bellamy, Miles Bellamy, Kara Fisher, Joseph, Jenna, and Jessa Kramer; and great-niece and nephew Meadow and JJ McCormack.
He was a proud godfather to Andrew and Dominic Kerr, and Wesley Pigeon. John’s memory will be deeply cherished by his closest friends Casey Kerr, Henry (Bernie) Pigeon, Tom (Cari) Slater, and Krysta Kerr; beloved cousins Angie (Tim) Kieffer; and many more. He was like a big brother to everyone—always making sure those around him were cared for and looked after.
John was preceded in death by his father, John C. Bellamy, and his nephew, Sammy Bellamy.
Per his wishes, a private Celebration of Life will be held later this year with those closest to him. He asked that you remember John as he wanted to be remembered: through laughter, shared stories, funny T-shirts, occasional pranks, and the joy of being together.
