Eugene ‘Gene’ Belt, age 95, died Wednesday, November 9, 2016, at Countryside Adult Foster Care where he has been a resident for the past three years. Gene was born on May 23, 1921, in Tolu, Kentucky, the son of Mark and Trecy (Hoover) Belt. On June 22, 1941, he was united in marriage to the former Theda Fuller who preceded him in death in 2005. They resided together in Fairfield, Illinois where he was employed at a local factory and owned a carpet cleaning and installation business. He served his country during World War II in Europe as part of the 8th Corps, 89th Infantry, 3rd Army. He fought through the Hedgerows in France and at the Battle of the Bulge. In 1970, Gene and Theda began a new chapter moving to Battle Creek, Michigan where he was employed at Te-Khi Travel Court until his retirement in 1986. A keen business man, he also purchased and sold real estate, owned many rental homes and knew the art of striking a good deal. An avid sports fan, he was most known for his love of Kentucky Wildcat basketball and Detroit Tiger baseball. He also loved the game of golf and was a long-time member of the Riverside Country Club. After retirement, he was most often found on the golf course when the weather allowed. His longevity was often attributed to his commitment to exercise throughout his life. Known as “Pa-paw” to the family, he was always cherished for his strong work ethic and loving devotion to his family. One of his favorite pass times was to gather everyone together for pizza, even in his final years. Surviving is a son, Danny E. (Brenda) Belt; grandchildren, Jill (Justin) Willey, Mark (Kristen) St. John, Matthew (Desiree) St. John, Jessica (Harlan) Goodrich and Geoff (Morgan Wilson) Belt and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Judy St. John and brothers, Marvin and Pat Belt. Visitation will be held Sunday, November 13, 2016, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 14, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment with full military honors will be at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the VA Medical Center. www.henryfuneralhome.org
