In Loving Memory of John F. Belczyk
John F. Belczyk, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, peacefully departed this world on June 3, 2023 at the age of 78. His presence touched the lives of many, and his memory will forever be treasured in our hearts.
Born on August 8, 1944, in North Charleroi, Pennsylvania, John was the beloved son of Jacob (Jack) Belczyk and Helen (Uniejewski) Belczyk. He grew up surrounded by the love of his siblings, Priscilla, Stanley, Eugene, Donald (deceased), Barry, Vincent, and Cynthia.
John found love and companionship in his marriage to Yoko Odom Belczyk. Their union was a testament to the enduring power of love, and their shared journey was filled with joy and cherished moments. John's unwavering love and commitment to Yoko were evident in every aspect of their life together.
Professionally, John dedicated his years of service to Rexam Graphics as a Machinist and Dispatcher for an impressive span of 45 years, from 1966 until his retirement in 2011. He was known for his exceptional work ethic and attention to detail.
In addition to his professional achievements, John proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force, where his ability to fix or build anything were highly valued. His commitment to duty and honor exemplified his character, and we are grateful for his service to our nation.
John had a variety of interests and hobbies that brought him immense joy. He had a green thumb and found solace in gardening, nurturing beautiful plants and flowers. He found peace in observing and studying birds, and his love for nature extended to his passion for caring for all animals, large and small. Above all, he cherished the time spent with his family, making lasting memories and ensuring their happiness and well-being.
John's loving spirit and warm presence will be deeply missed by his daughter, Tamarah Belczyk of Newton, MA, as well as his grandchildren, Declan and Stellan Gillespie, whose lives he touched with his love and guidance. He also leaves behind his brothers, Stanley, Eugene (and his wife, Carlyn), Barry (and his partner, Molly), and Vincent (and his wife, Pamela), his sisters, Priscilla and Cynthia, his sister-in-law, Beverly, his sister-and brother-in-law Jeannie and Jeffrey Myers, brother-in-law Michael Odom, his dear friend and co-conspirator, Cynthia Griffin Korhonen, his daughter Lisa and her son Cory, and many, many beloved nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Though his brother Donald and sister-in-law Mona have passed away, his memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will also be greatly missed by the many furry, feathered and creepy-crawly animals that he considered family.
AS WE GATHER TO CELEBRATE JOHN'S REMARKABLE LIFE, WE INVITE FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO JOIN US IN HONORING HIS MEMORY ON THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 2023 AT 11: 00 A.M. AT THE DELANEY HOUSE RESTAURANT, 3 COUNTRY CLUB RD., HOLYOKE. Let us celebrate the incredibly loving man that he was. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that anyone who wishes to send a gift please make a donation in John’s memory to the Massachusetts Audubon Society (
www.massaudubon.org
) or Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Adoption Center (
www.tjoconnoradoptioncenter.com
).