David Frank Belmonte

David Frank Belmonte, a beloved family man, educator and coach, passed away peacefully at his Kirkland home at the age of 81.

Born in Los Angeles in May of 1944 to Frank and Margie Belmonte, he later moved to Seattle, where he spent many meaningful years. After graduating from O'Dea High School in 1962, he went on to earn both his bachelor's and master's degrees in education from Seattle and Antioch Universities. His college years were eventful and included working alongside his Dad, an accomplished chef. He often spoke of the skills he learned and the memories he had in those years spent with his Dad in several Seattle restaurants of the1960's/70's. In 1965, he married the love of his life, Lorelei. They were soon blessed with two children, Jeff & Gina.

David's greatest love was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, with whom he shared 59 years of love, laughter and mutual admiration. He was a proud Dad & Bumpa, spending time with his children and grandchildren, Andy & Jeffrey, which brought him immense joy and happiness. He was a loving brother to his sister, Drena. He was a constant source of love, guidance and support. His family meant the world to him, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

David dedicated 36 years to teaching history at Franklin & Roosevelt High Schools. Beyond the classroom, he also made an enduring impact as a high school basketball coach for 60 years, leading teams at Franklin, Bellevue and Roosevelt High Schools as a head coach. In the later years of his career and retirement he served as an assistant coach at Garfield and Rainier Beach High Schools, proudly mentoring and supporting his former players who had become head coaches themselves. As a head and assistant, Coach B helped lead his teams to numerous Metro, King-Co, District and State Championships.

He was known not only for his love of the game but for his passion for teaching and guiding young people. He cherished every opportunity to encourage, inspire, and uplift his students and players. His impact will echo through the lives he touched and the values he instilled.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lorelei, son, Jeff (Karyn), daughter, Gina (Chris), his cherished grandchildren, Andy & Jeffrey, great granddaughter, Valerie, his sister, Drena, six nieces, one nephew and countless former students, players and coaches who will carry his lessons forward. David was also a dear friend to many, always ready to offer a listening ear or a word of encouragement.

Though David may no longer be with us in body, his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, whose lives he touched with kindness, humor, and unwavering love. He will be remembered not only for his devotion to his family but for the positive impact he had on all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched both on and off the court. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Rainier Beach High School Gymnasium on Saturday, September 13th at 1:00p.m. In lieu of flowers and to honor Coach B, donations may be made to Rainier Beach High School PTSA

Please choose 'Boys Basketball' from the drop-down menu when making your donation.

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