Alfred Belka

Alfred Merlin Belka

1939 ~ 2023

- Alfred Merlin Belka, affectionately known as Fred, left us on July 13, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and unwavering faith. A man of many talents, Fred was a loyal husband, a supportive father, and a reliable friend, always ready to lend a hand. His commitment to his loved ones was only matched by the passion he had for his varied pursuits. Born on February 22, 1939, in Salt Lake City, UT, Fred's life was a testament to the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. As it says in 1 Corinthians 16:14, "Let all that you do be done with love." Fred embodied this scripture, pouring love into every aspect of his life.

Fred was a man of many talents and a jack of all trades who skillfully navigated through life as a machinist at Love Machine Company and a maintenance supervisor with Hobart Manufacturing. He also worked as a contractor carpenter building many houses, to include his own, and as a refrigeration repair man. His favorite and most loved job was working on aircraft and serving his country in the USAF as an engine mechanic on B-52 aircraft from 1957 to 1961. In 1969, he joined the Utah Air National Guard as a Crew chief on KC-97's and later KC-135s. He retired as a Senior Master Sergeant at age 60 in 1999. When someone would ask where the service had taken him, Fred would say "I've been around the world, from Tokyo to Tel Aviv". Fred found joy in flying, skiing, golf, dancing, and outdoor activities. He also had a great interest for remote controlled airplanes and model airplanes, reflective of his fascination with aircraft from a very young age.

His steadfast nature was also evident in his spiritual life. As a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Alfred served as a High Priest, in the Elders Quorum Presidency, and in the Stake High Council. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, as beautifully expressed in the scripture, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Fred's life was enriched by the love of his high school sweetheart and wife of 64 years, Carol. Together, they raised a beautiful family, creating a lifetime of memories. Alfred is survived by his loving wife Carol, his children Alexis (Brad) Pehrson, Tamara (Richard) Williams, Mitchell (Jaquenette) Belka, William (Rebecca) Belka, Jeffery Belka, Jo-el Person (Tyler Slade), twenty grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his twin sister Alice, brothers Robert, Raymond, Kenneth, Sister Ruth, Edward, and Paul. He was preceded in death by his parents, Merlin and Mary Belka.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 6:00 pm MDT at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Homes, 4760 S. State Street, Murray, Utah followed by an additional viewing on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at 10:00 am MDT at Salt Lake Millcreek Stake Center, 4220 South Jeannine Dr in Millcreek, Utah. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 am MDT at the same location.

In honor of Fred's memory, we invite everyone who knew him to share their memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page. His life was a tapestry of love, service, and dedication that touched us all, and your tributes will help keep his spirit alive in our hearts.