BELLES, Fred Leon - Putnam

Fred L. BELLES, 76, died Dec 18, 1960 at his home in Russellville unexpectedly. Born Jan 28, 1884, son of Milton B. and Laura Mitchell Bales he married Blanche LaFollette Oct 4, 1905. Mr. Belles, who was one of Russellville's most prominent residents, was known throughout Indiana for his work as a farmer and sheep breeder of Shorthorn cattle and Shropshire sheep. He also was a long time representative of the Farmers Mutual insurance Co. of Indianapolis. Mr. Belles also was cashier of Russellville State Bank for 20 years; a member of Russellville Christian Church since 1905; affiliated with the church one month after it was dedicated; a deacon, elder and chairman of the church board. Mr. Belles was a past master of Russellville Masonic Lodge, past patron of OES. He was superintendent of the Christian Church Sunday School for 10 years. In 1932 he was awarded the master farmer medal by Prairie Farmer. He also was president of Indiana Livestock Breeders Association for two years, past president of the Shorthorn Breeders Association of Indiana, president of Parke County Farm Bureau for six years and former office of Parke County Fair Board. His picture was placed in the Purdue Agricultural Hall of Fame Jan 23, 1957. Survivors include the wife, Blanche; a sister, Mrs. Bertha Nicholas and 3 half-brother, Charles M; Frank and Glenn Belles. He was preceded in death by a stepbrother, James W. McCray. Funeral services were held Monday at Russellville Christian Church with Rev. Robert Lewis officiating; burial in Russellville Cemetery.   --- kbz