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AMELETO DELBELLO Obituary
AMELETO "JACK" DEL BELLO passed away peacefully in the presence of his loved ones at
Holmes Regional Hospital on Friday, August 23. Jack was born December 9, 1927 in Philadelphia, Pa, the son of Dominico and Asunta Del Bello. He grew up in South Philadelphia with his brother Carmen, and sisters Lucy and Norma. He graduated from Southern Philadelphia High School in 1946, where he was a solid student and football star. He played in the nationally publicized inter- city championship at Franklin Field between Southern and West Catholic in 1945 in front of 57,000 fans. In 1987, he was inducted into Southern's football Hall of Fame. As a result of his exploits on the football field and in the classroom, he was awarded a scholarship at Holy Cross College, where he played for one year before being discovered by the University of Miami, where he finished his college playing career as both a Quarterback and Defensive Back. He graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Education, and later went on to obtain his Master's Degree. While at the University of Miami, he was introduced to his beloved wife of 62 years Elizabeth "Betty" Murray on a "blind" date. Says Betty: "I never dated anyone else after that." They were married on January 2, 1951, the day after he played in the Orange Bowl Classic of 1951. He suffered a separated shoulder during that game, and was hospitalized afterward, but snuck out of the hospital the next morning in order to make it to the altar on time. Drafted into the Army immediately after graduation, Jack played Quarterback for two years at Fort Jackson in Columbia, SC. During this time, Jack and Betty's first child Donald was born. After completing his military service at Fort Jackson, he was picked up by the Philadelphia Eagles, and looked forward to playing in his home town again, but was traded to the Baltimore colts where he played for one year. With second child David on the way, Jack and Betty decided to accept teaching positions in North Miami in order to better support their growing family. Jack began his teaching career at North Miami Senior High School in 1954, where he coached football and taught Physical and Driver Education until he retired on June 20, 1986. In 1955 daughter Deborah was born, and in 1959 son Dean was born. He was inducted into the NMHS coaching Hall of Fame in 2009, and elected "Teacher of the Year" in 1986. Jack coached and mentored generations of NMHS students and athletes, many of whom have stayed in contact with him to this day. After retirement, Jack and Betty moved to Sebastian, FL., spending their summers at their cabin in Marshal NC, and their winters in Sebastian. Jack will be remembered by all who knew him as a man of strong spiritual conviction, unwavering integrity, a selfless concern for the welfare of others, and most of all, a total dedication and lifelong commitment to his family. He is survived by his loving wife Betty, his children Donald, David, Deborah, and Dean, his Grandchildren Brad, Amo, BJ, Isa, the twins Dex and Deana, and his Great Grandchildren Jacob, Dylan, Tyler, Logan, Bella, Jaidyn, Luke, and Mia. Services will begin in Sebastian on Wednesday, Aug. 28, with a Wake Service from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Seawinds Funeral Home. On Thursday, Aug. 29, the Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Sebastian Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m., to be immediately followed by a reception lunch at St. Sebastian's Le Sage Hall.
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Memories and Condolences
for AMELETO DELBELLO
Hannah Mooney Donnelly
August 24, 2023
To one of the Best Coaches ever. RIP and The best to the family.
Lisa Lucas
September 6, 2013
September 5, 2013
Uncle Jack was my favorite uncle. I remember when I spent the summer in Ft, Lauderdale. One very hot summer day, we were riding to Key West. There was a turtle on its back in the middle of the road. When we drove by it I asked Uncle Jack what it was and what was going to happen to it. He looked at me and said it probably would die. When he looked off I was still looking at him. He said I guess you want to go back. I smiled at him. He drove back, turned the turtle around on it's feet and moved it to the side of the road where it would have a chance to live. To me, that was the sweetest thing ever. A heart of gold. Just like my mom, Lucy. There were so many more good memories we have had together with our families. We were all so sure we would have Uncle Jack here with us much longer than this. God had other plans. Let us continue to love each other and treasure the moments we spend with one another. No one is promised tomorrow. He would have wanted it that way. To my cousins Donnie, David, Debbie, and Dean, I love you and just want to hug you real tight. We may not get over this but together we will get through. To Aunt Betty, he loved you so. Many women will never know that kind of love. What a blessing. He left the greatest legacy of all. The legacy of love and I am honored to have been a recipient of his love. Thank you Uncle Jack. Love, Lisa
Ernie Anderson
September 5, 2013
I had the distinct pleasure of being taught, being coached and coaching along side Coach. I ran into him in Highlands, NC when I was entering and he was leaving the local movie theater after graduation in 74. He asked me what I was doing and I responded Going to see a movie..his answer, No in NC you dummy..
Always a smile on his face followed by a wink.
God speed Coach and I'm sure you'll having the Angels doing Wind Sprints..
Barbara Papendick (Auriti)
September 4, 2013
With our deepest sympathy as coach was part of our wonderful school years at North Miami. He will be missed. R.I.P.
Sandy Jones
September 3, 2013
Thoughts and prayers to Coach Bello's family.
Lori Anne Torchio
August 31, 2013
My fondest memories of a child were when Uncle Jack came to Philadelphia every summer, Dean stayed with my family, Donny, David and Debbie stayed with Aunt Lucy. Uncle Jack and Aunt Betty stayed with Nana and Pop Pop in South Philadelphia! We would gather at Aunt Lucy's for BBQ and Lamb roast's! Uncle Jack would Always take all of us kids ( 11 ) in a day trip Hearshy Park, Washington DC etc. he would load us all into his station wagon, Debbie and David always fighting about something!! Donny always taking good care of me, I was the younger one! As we all got older Uncle Jack still came in the summer minus the Kids! I was always excited to see him, I remember him holding a basketball with one hand, He was a Charming but tough Love kinda Man!, who demanded respect and got it! But underneath it all he was a Big Teddy Bear who Loved deep! I am so sorry I couldn't make the trip to Florida to see him one last time. I was in the middle of moving into my first House, and I know he would have Loved it! Rest in Peace Uncle Jack now you are with Uncle Carmen and Nana and Pop Pop,
Bobbie Andrews
August 31, 2013
Pop...he took on the role of such an important role of any childs life...a father. My brother (Brad) and I were so lucky to have had him as just that...A FATHER. He carried us all under his wing and we couldn't get anything past him!! He has given us the best childhood memories and life lessons. I have always been so proud to call him my Poppop. I love him more than words can say and miss my conversations with him. I love you Pop...and I will continue to talk to you...and I know your are listening and guiding me.
Bruce Ward
August 29, 2013
I will never forget the day he came to get the entire Machine Shop Class for a special assignment. That day I saw what the fans of the Baltimore Colts got to see in 1953. He cared for every student and their safety, and he cared for every American and served our Country. To the Del Bello family, I hope your healing comes soon, he has not left us as he lives on in all of our hearts and minds. God Bless Coach Del Bello and his Family. Bruce Ward Class of 1969
Allan Webb
August 29, 2013
In 1954, as a 10th grader, I went out for football at North Miami High School. Although I had worked out with weights for a year trying to gain weight and get bigger, I was still a wiry 120 pound kid. I went to North Miami (all of my Horace Mann friends went to Edison) because it was a new school and I figured I would have a better chance of making the team. I couldn't believe it when I found out that my backfield coach was one of my former Miami Hurricane heroes, quarterback Jack Del Bello. OMG he was so intimidating. He was so big. He was such a great athlete. He could throw and kick the ball about twice as far any kid on the team. He had this wry sense of humor. All of us kids were terrified of him. Yet I sensed that he was really a good guy and that he had my best interest at heart. I found myself hanging on to every word he said. He inspired me to work hard and dedicate myself to being the best I could be. He not only taught me how to block and tackle, he taught me important lessons about life. I can still remember to this day, almost word-for-word, every bit of praise and criticism he ever gave me. Most important, I learned from Coach Del Bello that if I worked hard and committed myself I could accomplish anything that I set out to do. That lesson has carried me all through my life. When I first went out for the team, my dream was just to make the team, be one the guys who dressed out for the game. The next year, as 16 year-old, 140 pound, 11th grader, Coach Del Bello named me the varsity starter at right halfback. I had worked hard and it had paid off. I was so proud. As an adult I loved seeing Jack at high school reunions, sharing old memories and experiencing what a nice and humble guy he was. My dad used to say that football was the best taught subject in high school. Thanks to dedicated coaches such as Jack Del Bello, I found that to be so true.
Anthony Delvecchio
August 29, 2013
What a great man. I knew Coach DelBello long before I went to North Miami High School, I grew up in the neighborhood and the summer rec programs included NMSHS Coaches helping young kids. Then I had the honor of being taught Driver's Education by Jack. Then in High School, I played football for Jack, and he was my 12th grade PE teacher. If you went to North Miami High School, there was no getting away from this guy. What an honor to have known you "Coach". My heart goes out to the whole family, "Coach DelBello" was a super individual who shaped so many young lives. God Bless.
August 29, 2013
I played for Coach at North Miami and had the honor of being inducted into the NM HOF in 2009 the same day he was. Coach Del Bello made us all better players and more importantly, better people. I truly loved his sense of humor, he was a great coach and mentor to us all.
Nick Belmonte NM '73
Leilani Figueroa
August 29, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to all of the family. Jack was a good man and a was always willing to help others. He was a blessing to my Mom and to me. Please know that he was loved and will always be cherished by all of us who knew him. My love to you Betty and to all of your children and grandchildren. May God give you the comfort of knowing that we are with you all in your time of sorrow. Love you always, Leilani
Samantha
August 29, 2013
The Main man of his Family!!!
Samantha Haas
August 29, 2013
As a childhood friend of BJ....( who at the time lived with her grandparents) I remember the face of a man who was so invovled and wanted the best for everyone in HIS family. He used to tell us ...sneaking out the window will get you nowhere. :-) and no you cant sleep in the RV!! Beej loved him SO much and learned many great things from him. His memory lives on in all his grandkids. And now we tell our kids.... No sneaking out the window :-)
Brad Andrews
August 29, 2013
Dear pop. I never thought this day would come. I always thought you were indestrutable.You were my hero. My mentore. My rock. You were as big as a skyscraper. And as tough as nails. You had the heart of a lion. The love you shared with your family and friends is equal to none. You tought me how treat a lady. And to work hard. And I will think of you everyday . Words can not express how empty my life is now that you are gone but I know you would want me to be happy. So until we meet again . Goodbye popop. From your loving grandson.
Sheryl Torchio
August 28, 2013
My heartfelt sympathy to the entire DelBello family. Uncle Jack was a treasure that enriched many lives, mine included...
jerry orndoff , and everett cobb
August 28, 2013
we met jack & betty when we bought our north carolinia home. jack was a great wealth of information in this new endeaver. i wish we would have had more time , but i'm greatful for the time we had . i really enjoyed talking to jack , and betty .our deepest condolances go out to the debello family at your time of need
Clive and Janet Shrader
August 28, 2013
Betty, our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Our friendship with Betty started in High School, and Jack joined us at the U of M. and it has been a life-time strong friendship since. Clive and I introduced them at U.of M. We will always remember Jack as one of the greatest men we have ever known and will cherish the great times we had together.
Sharon Fedor
August 28, 2013
If only I could go back to the North Miami Senior High of 1965 to 68, I could see his face again, bobbing through the hallway, with that encouraging smile. I would feel special again, when, by some chance on that particular day, in that particular hallway, at that particular time, he looked at me. I wish for you to breathe beyond the tears, and from then on, bask in his sunny memory.
David McDonald
August 28, 2013
Jack was one of my best and closest friends from the day I first met him in 1948. All the superlatives one could think of in trying to describe a friend, athlete, coach, teacher, and a truly all around all-American would be inadequate. Few people have made such a favorable impact on so many young people. Pat and I send our deepest sympathy with many fond memories to Betty, Don, David, Debbie, Dean and their families.
John Barty
August 28, 2013
Jack was a great coach and a caring dedicated person. He always treated everyone equal and tried to get each of his students to preform to the best of their ability. He was stern at times but had a great sense of humor when you got to know him. He will be dearly missed by all whose life he touched. John Barty. (68)
Meredith McDonough
August 28, 2013
Uncle Jack was so special - always so full of laughter and kindness. Sending a huge hug to my family in Florida. Xo
The Hummels
August 28, 2013
Our prayers are with the entire DelBello family. Uncle Jack had a smile that lit the room, and a warmth that embraced us all. We will miss him.
Barbara Conrad
August 28, 2013
It was great working with Jack for fourteen years.
Ron Rincones
August 28, 2013
Always had the greatest respect for our wonderful NMHS Coach Del Bello. My prayers go out to the Del Bello family.
Steve Herforth
August 28, 2013
What an amazing man your father was Don. Someone to be very proud of. Our heart felt condolences go out to your and your family. Steve and Pete
At a pioneer reunion.
August 28, 2013
Saw him every day when I played basketball after school. He is a gem in my memories! He gave me encouragement to complete my 10-year book, "Baker's Haulover - A Maritime Treasure of History and Pioneers," in which his name is forever commemorated on page 161. He spoke to me on the phone when he received the book and stated the following on March 7, 2013 - “It's beautiful [the book]. It all looks so familiar, you think you've been there. That was the good old time. You know Jackie Simpson, a football player for Edison (school), also parked cars part time at the Lighthouse Restaurant like I did. I worked there about three years and received $1.50 an hour but had to turn in the tips. The rest of the time I taught Physical Education and Diversified Cooperative Training at North Miami High School. Sometimes we would get food from the kitchen. It was excellent. I did go and eat there at other times, but couldn't afford to go there every week. Haven't read the entire book, but intend to read it all.” Coach Jack Del Bello, (Former teacher at NMHS), Sebastian, FL (I know he will finish the book in paradise, Marti Saconchik-Pytel, 1957).
Jimmy Abrams
August 28, 2013
I Had Coach Jack DelBello For Phys Ed Class in My Senior Year in 1968-69 at North Miami Sr.High.I Can Still Remember Seeing Coach DelBello Dribbling a Basketball on The Gym Floor & Shooting Hoops inside The NM Sr.High Gymnassium.Wearing His Gray Tee Shirt With Green NM Sr.High Lettering & Gray Shorts.Just Like Yesterday Over 44+ Years Ago.R.I.P. Coach Jack Delbello...
Janet Bender Writt
August 27, 2013
A great and giving man truly blessed us all on his time here on earth ...I enjoyed his fairness and work ethic so many should be half as lucky to have the legacy he has left behind they don't make them like him anymore...prayers hugs and peace for all coachs loved ones he has left behind Janet Bender Writt 1973
Barbara Ohlsson
August 27, 2013
It was such a joy to be with Jack and Elizabeth at our 50th "Class of 56" Reunion and watch him enjoy socializing with the group. He will be more than missed by all.
Barbara (Clark) Ohlsson '56
Rick Lyons
August 27, 2013
He gave me A chance,when the others said I was to small to play Football.
rhonda welsh
August 27, 2013
I knew him through his son don and spent memorable times he always had a smile and made me laugh never knew of his legacy RIP
August 27, 2013
Jack not only instilled courage and persistence in my life through football but also always reminded me of what i could do as long as i was motivated to always do the right thing You will be missed by many
Howie Weinberg [ 1958 ]
Randy Stephens
August 27, 2013
Hey Coach! You still owe me a mailbox!
Great man. Randy Stephens Class of 73
Mary Anne Stephens
August 27, 2013
I can't find the words to express the love my family and I have for this man. I have laughed and cried so much these past few weeks thinking of "Coach" stories. Such a special man. Mary Anne Duncan Stephens Class of 1976
Richard Lozada
August 27, 2013
Rest in Peace Coach
August 27, 2013
I have wonderful memories of working with Jack at North Miami Senior. We disagreed often but always enjoyed the conversation! Please accept my condolences for your loss. Merri Mann,
NMSH, 1964-1985
Christine Hamilton
August 27, 2013
I am very sorry for your loss. I was only in his DCT class for senior year, and he was that one teacher that you never forgot. He was a beautiful person and touched the lives of everyone. He will be missed by many.
Elena Domenech Segal
August 27, 2013
What a wonderful coach and teacher...always with a smile...you will be missed...
Elena Domenech Segal
Class of 73
Mary Timmons
August 27, 2013
May God wrap His loving arms around Coaches family and may they always keep their faith strong knowing that he is with our King in Paradise...God's peace be with you all...so sorry for your loss...
August 27, 2013
My deepest sympathies to the Del Bello family. Thanks coach for helping to teach me to drive. Susie Seale, NMHS class of '80'
Eileen Bolger Taylor
August 27, 2013
God speed Coach. Your daily "Good morning young lady" as I passed you each day on my way to homeroom are fond memories from my days at North Miami. I hope we'll greet each other again some day!
carolyn summerford
August 27, 2013
Sending prayers for comfort and strength to the family. Carolyn Eby Summerford Pioneer class of 73
Coaching North Miami Pioneers 1970's
Jeanne Mastellone-Evans
August 27, 2013
Dearest Betty and Kids, So saddened over your loss. I will always remember how Jack watched out for me in the hallways at North Miami. He has a special place in my heart. I am so glad our families had the chance to get together over the years and have a lot of laughs. I cannot express how many lives he touched at North Miami, including mine. His memory will live on in many hearts.
Scott Erskine
August 27, 2013
My heartfelt condolences to the Del Bello family. Rest in peace, Jack.
Tony & Pat D'Alessio
August 27, 2013
Betty & Family - Our deepest sympathy to all - our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Jack was a very special person; the wonderful memories will assist you during the weeks ahead.
Suzanne Viviano Young
August 27, 2013
What a GREAT Man!! One of the few that got away with teasing me! I ALWAYS held him close and tight in my heart! Much LOVE to the family during this hard and trying time. Many Angels have greeted him including my beautiful Mom, Nancy! Biggest HUGS! Suz
Stella Antosh
August 27, 2013
What a wonderful teacher. You touched thousands of young lives.
Cynthia Delbello
August 27, 2013
I first met Jack the night before I married his Grandson. I said, "I'm warning you, I'm going to hug you now." He responded, "I'm warning you, I'm Italian so I'm going to kiss you now." He will be fondly remembered. My thoughts & love to the family.
NMSH Class of '73 June Williges Bradford
August 27, 2013
Coach DeBello was one of the good guys. What a well lived life. My heartfelt condolences to his family. Rest peacefully Coach.
Jack DelBello Nov. 8, 1950
Alvin Lederer
August 27, 2013
Coach DelBello was a leader among men in every aspect of his life, he will be remembered by many people including myself as an institution at North Miami Sr. High both on and off the field. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his Family and Friends. On a personal note I want to thank him for coming to see me at Gator Lumber, thank's for everything Coach
Al Carapella
August 27, 2013
Betty, so sorry to learn of Jacks passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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