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Mary Elaine Mikula Belochi
1958 - 2007
Mary Elaine Mikula Belochi
1958 - 2007
Obituary
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Mary Mikula Belochi Obituary
She was born March 8, 1958 in Gary, Indiana to Helen and James Mikula. She attended Purdue University, earning her degree in Management in 1980. After graduation she moved to California, married in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and became a mother in 1996 to her adored son Colton. The family moved to Boulder in 2000 where Mary quickly became actively involved in the local arts scene and with many local charities, including EFAA, Boulder Shootout and Boulder Housing and Human Services Department's Youth Opportunities Advisory Board. In 2001, she established an art dealership, Exhibitrek - Art That Gets Around, exhibiting local and national artists in her home and other venues. The success of this venture led to her opening the popular Exhibitrek Gallery on 15th Street in Boulder in 2005.
Mary was gifted with an infectious laugh and a vivacious, effervescent personality that could light up any room and left a lasting impression with everyone who had the pleasure to know her. Her warmth, generosity and enthusiasm shone brightly through her love of the arts, and brightest of all through her boundless love for her young son. Her sudden departure leaves a substantial void, and she will be greatly missed by her family and her large circle of friends in the Boulder community and beyond.
Mary is survived by her son, Colton Belochi, and his father, Mike Belochi, of Boulder. She is also survived by her sister, Julie Hansen, and her sister's family, husband Kirk and sons Eric and John of Vail and her beloved Aunt Vi. Mary was preceded in death by her mother, father and sister Susan.
A Celebration of Mary's Life will be held for friends and family at Rembrandt Yard, 1301 Spruce Street in Boulder, on Thursday, January 17th, 2008 from 6pm to 8pm.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Colleen Newlin
January 14, 2025
Aloha Michael, I think of Mary (and you) so often.
I must share what happened on this Dec 19, which is also the date (not same year) of my Mothers transition. I was waiting for a friend at a hotel, and started chatting with a guest about Kauai and their honeymoon etc. Before we parted, I asked him his name...He said Colton! I thanked Mary for the reminder, remembered my Mother as well, and sent them Love as I felt them together... I love them both! And you guys, too Deep Aloha to your Family!!!! Colleen xooxoxxo
Jeanie and Richard Leddon
January 24, 2008
There will always be a special place in our hearts for Mary. She knew how to light up a room and always brought joy to every occasion with her many talents. Being a wonderful mother was Mary's special talent. We see that in how thoughtful and talented a young man Colton is becoming. We miss Mary very much.
Lynn Bregman-Blass
January 17, 2008
Mary has been in my thoughts since I found out about her passing. I am one of the artists that she began to promote before we moved to North Carolina. Everytime I went back to Boulder I would go to the gallery and talk and spend time with Mary.
Mary..you always encouraged me to trust"my artistic voice...you got "it" whatever that "it" is that artists try to translate in their work....I remember your showing me Colton's art work in your house and how proud you were of his voice and who he was...may all who loved and were loved by you feel your presence in their lives always and may your journey be gentle....
Lillian Craze
January 16, 2008
Mary,
I owe you a thank you for a couple recent gifts you gave to my children. The gifts, like you, celebrated art, reading and music. And like many others who've written here, you left an indelible impression on our family. You were not only a gracious neighbor, but also a generous friend. I thank you for our interactions in which you always left me with something: a smile, a laugh, a piece of wisdom or a bit of encouragement. You are missed.
With love,
Lillian
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Ann Brexa
January 15, 2008
Dear Mike and Colton:
It has taken me some time to send my thoughts now that Mary has passed. I have a heartful of memories that she has left with me.
Mary was my dearest friend over the past 5 years. I am so deeply saddened that she has passed on. She brought so many gifts and rich, unforgettable experiences and support and sisterlike sharing into my life. She brought both of you into our family. She was family. My Dad called her his fourth daughter. She was like my sister.
I miss her terribly.
I wish for us all - Mike, Colton, Jack and my girls to always treasure this chapter of our lives which was graced with the extraordinary sparkle, the outrageous fun and the very real human struggle that Mary lived.
She believed in each one of us and she told us. She was generous and fun and larger than life. Our home lit up when she stepped in, we all wanted a little more of her when she was around. We gathered for her stories, we received her beautiful and spontaneous gifts, we listened to her advice, admired her extraordinary presence and accomplishments and consoled her in pain. She was a champion of me and my family. We laughed alot, cried a little. We raised our sons together and it is unforgettable.
Colton, your smile is lit with your Mom's joy. I will always treasure my beautiful friend who gave unforgettable gifts. I will look over my shoulder often to feel her spirit, her extaordinary spirit that may be at peace now.
I love you, Mary, Ann
Patricia Murphy
January 14, 2008
I first met Mary when she walked into the Montessori School both of our sons attended in Boulder - what an incredibly charming and vivid presence! Such energy, drive and brilliance - Mary changed everything and everyone she came into contact with for the better. She was brave, so innovative and bold, so creative and gifted. From the time I first met her, she has been an inspiration and a lesson for me about what is possible in this life, and an example of how very much can be accomplished by one person. Her profound love for and pride in her son Colton, though, are perhaps what I remember best about her, and her own brilliance, social grace, and creativity are what I see everytime I look into his wonderful little face.
Jane Saltzman
January 14, 2008
Mary, when I'd hear your footsteps as you entered the gallery I would feel so excited. Your passion and love and commitment to the artists and the space were infectious. When you spoke to Colton about the art in my home, it was with so much love and compassion and real excitement for sharing your love of art with him. What a stunning child you have.
So many words of love and gratefulness and tears of joy and sadness have been spread throughout exhibitrek as I have helped the artists retrieve their bodies of work. You created an extraordinary space like none seen in Boulder before.
Mary, I am missing you and will remember you and your beautiful face and energy for the remainder of my days.
Barbara Frey
January 14, 2008
I was fortunate enough to participate in a joint art exhibit with Boulder adult artists and Boulder youth artists. I thought Mary's creativity and courage in supporting young artists was brilliant!! Her contributions to the community will be greatly missed. I send my deepest condolences to Mary's family and friends at this difficult time. Barbara Frey
Kathleen Calpin
January 13, 2008
I met Mary and Colton at a Christmas party in 2006. I was new to Boulder and didn't know a soul at the party besides the hostess. Mary was so friendly and she made me feel at ease. It would be several months before I went to the gallery and again Mary welcomed me. She helped me to select some magnificent art work for my condo. I will always remember her as a truly kind, accomplished woman and excellent mother. Mary will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
holly mitchell
January 13, 2008
I have the special memory of being Colton's 3rd grade teacher and the interaction of his two loving parents with their boy. I especially recall a parent conference that Colton was leading and the unadulterated love that poured over this meeting from both his mom and his dad. Mary was the type of parent that all teachers hope for; she was totally supportive of her child and of our program. I can honestly not recall a moment in our numerous interactions where Mary didn't greet me with a tremendous smile on her glowing face. Colton, your mom was a true beauty, both inside and out. My thoughts are with you buddy, love, Holly
Virginia Wood
January 13, 2008
I am a long time Boulder artist. I loved Mary's gallery, and though I did not know her personally, I always enjoyed her welcoming smile and friendliness when I visited her gallery. You will be missed, Mary. You added so much to the arts in Boulder.
Michael Tracy
January 10, 2008
Mary was a nice woman and a nice mom to her son Colton. I first met her when I became friends with Colton at school in 2001. Colton felt like a brother and she felt like a second mom to me. She always had a laugh that made everyone smile.
I’m sorry Colton.
Dennis Quinn
January 10, 2008
In 2005 I came back to Boulder to find a new and different kind of gallery off Pearl St. That's when I met Mary and we began our
serious art talks. Not just about the business of art but the language of art... the purpose of art. She tried to entice me into the gallery but later that year I recived an artist residency in the town of Ward and became involved with teaching. But I continued to visit with students periodically to expose them to new art and Mary was alway very cordial and interested in what the young artists were doing.
We were the same age and took a similar journey on parallel roads. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, and your intertest in all those past and present who also took that journey. Farewell Mary.
Paula Park
January 9, 2008
Mary and I met over 20 years ago. We developed a very special bond and close friendship. She is one of those rare and amazing people that make a powerful impact on your life. I considered her and Mike to be my extended family and always thought of her as part of "me" my family. I am so thankful that she was here, albeit very short but none the less influential and unforgettable. I look around my house and Mary selected all my art, furniture and many other special things. She is everywhere and I will always treasure her memory.
She was an amazing woman who was so gifted, I often told her that it was unfair that one person had so many wonderful qualities and abilities. Everything she did was done so effortlessly, it was truly innate. She was a beautiful, intelligent, a fantastic chef, an art lover, an interior designer, played the piano by ear, a loving, compassionate, funny, generous and passionate woman that had a boundless vivacious personality.
I'd like to say something to Mary.
Mary you were one of my dearest friends and I thank you for helping me become who I am today. You will always be in my heart and I will always love you dearly.
Rest in peace and don’t worry, your family and friends will always be there for Colton. We will tell him all the funny and endearing things you use to do and your memory will live on.
Love
Paula Park
Paula Park
January 9, 2008
Mary and I met over 20 years ago. We developed a very special bond and close friendship. She is one of those rare and amazing people that makes a powerful impact on your life. I considered her and Mike to be my extended family and always thought of her as part of "me" my family. I am so thankful that she was here, albeit very short but none the less influential and unforgettable. I look around my house and Mary selected all my art, furniture and many other special things. She is everywhere and I will always treasure her memory.
She was an amazing woman who was so gifted, I often told her that it was unfair that one person had so many wonderful qualities and abilities. Everything she did was done so effortlessly, it was truly innate. She was beautiful, intelligent, a fantastic chef, an art lover, an interior designer, played the piano by ear, a loving, compassionate, funny, generous and passionate woman that had a boundless vivacious personality.
I'd like to say something to Mary.
Mary you were one of my dearest friends and I thank you for helping me become who I am today. You will always be in my heart and I will always love you dearly.
Rest in peace and don’t worry, your family and friends will always be there for Colton. We will tell him all the funny and endearing things you use to do and your memory will live on.
Love
Paula Park
Livia Hooson
January 9, 2008
Mary, you were the bestest freind of my mom Ann, and your son is still the best bud of my brother Jack. You were like a second mom to Allie, Jack and I, your aspirations set so high for all of us. Encouraging our individuality and being a prime example of accomplishing your dreams. Thanks for sharing your life with us, being a part of your joys and struggles was a blessing. I adore your son and hope to be a part of his life forever, your shining personality resonates through him!!
all my love
xoxoxox<3<3<3<3
Khristine and Phil Rolfe
January 9, 2008
Our hearts go out to Colton, Mike and the rest of Mary's family. We are new to Boulder and had just recently met Mary, but she had already welcomed our son Landon warmly into her home several times. Her love for Colton was so evident. He is a boy bursting with a joyous spirit. Our warmest thoughts and blessings go out to all of Mary's family and friends.
John Strom
January 8, 2008
I will remember Mary as the event planner. She always had an event going on with her business. Even more memorable to me, was that she was always setting up fun things to do for Colton and my son Ryan. Lots of summer days were spent at the Spruce Pool and nights at the Boulder Outdoor Cinema. Sleepovers at Mary’s house were always fun for Ryan. She will be missed. John and Ryan Strom
Collette Cressy
January 8, 2008
I just learned about Mary's passing from another Highland High School classmate and I am shocked and very saddened. Mary was one of my first friends when I moved to Southridge Elementary School in Highland, In. in third grade. She was the most popular girl, for good reason. She was beautiful even then, but more importantly she was beautiful on the inside. She was kind, sweet, fun to be with and always laughing. I last saw her at our 20th reunion and she was just the same. I'm sorry we didn't stay in touch and that I didn't get together with her when she moved to Colorado. The world has lost a beautiful person!
Charlotte Schneider
January 8, 2008
My heart goes out to Mary's family and especially to her amazing son Colton. I have had the pleasure to know Mary over the last few years through our kids Colton and Amy and through our mutual love of art. Mary was always so energetic and delightful to be around. I will remember fondly our meetings at the pool in the summer and the hikes that we had planned on taking. She made such an impact on so many. We will miss you Mary.
Meredith Nelson
January 7, 2008
I first met Mary when I brought work to Exhibitrek on the chance that she would consider it. She gave me and my art a warm and generous welcome and worked very hard for me from then on. The last time I saw her was in September when I had a show opening at The Dairy. In spite of the fact that she was hosting a major exhibit herself that night, she brought me a big bouquet of gorgeous roses. That seems to have been typical of her. I'm so sorry she's gone.
Teresa Roche
January 7, 2008
I first knew about Mary long before I met her as she was someone Susan Franchimont would always talk about from her neighborhood in Highland, Indiana. I was delighted when I finally met her and what remained constant about Mary was her passion, soulfulness, willingness to take a stand, vibrant spirit, infectious laugh and one of the most wicked senses of humor around. I went to high school with Mary and we ended up being at the same college, Purdue and sorority, Delta Gamma. Mary would listen to your heart and help you remember who you were when you had forgotten. What I will remember about Mary is how she loved her son, Colton, how she became a force for the artistic community in the area and was a leader championing others.
Ross Cooney
January 7, 2008
I moved into the Gallery to share that space with Mary, at her request. I will miss the Gallery, and most of all Mary's energy and her kind, and infectious personality. She is truly Boulder's loss.
Ross Cooney, Architect AIA
gerda ruhe
January 7, 2008
I was so shocked and saddened by the news about Mary. She was such a lively and lovely woman, and always made me feel so welcome whenever I visited her and my nephew in their home in California as well as in Colorado. She will live on in the memory of all those she was close to.
Derek & Jennifer DeWinter
January 7, 2008
Mary was a one of a kind woman. She was strong minded, bright, energetic, and will never be forgotten. There are about 5 stories that our group of friends share over and over every year and Mary occupies the top spot! Telling the story here won't give the appropriate context, but suffice it to say that it involved rafting, a good looking Kiwi, a lot of friends, and the cleverness, wit, and laugh that was all Mary!
We will miss her but never forget what she added to our lives.
Janet Huisjen
January 7, 2008
We remember Mary as a good neighbor and interesting friend. She was a generous and gracious hostess, and she had a heart for people with various needs. Mary was a diligent seeker for spiritual truth. We especially remember her as the proud and loving mother of Colton. She encouraged his skills in chess, trumpet, swimming, and academics. We will miss Mary very much. Janet & Marty Huisjen
Ina & Steve Belochi
January 6, 2008
Steve and I were deeply saddened by Mary's sudden death, but all the great times we spent together will keep her forever in our hearts.
I see her in the blooming flowers she helped me plant in our garden, in the cuddly jacket she gave me for Christmas which I decided to wear last end of year, in the painting with the snowy landscape that she felt would remind me of my childhood, and in all art which was her passion. She was so gifted, especially in music, and would just sit down at the piano on the spur of a moment, playing a classical piece without notes or any training.
I am still very troubled and upset about Mary's far too early passing, but I know, in time, I will smile when I think of her and when I hug her son, our precious grandson, COLTON, who was the love of her life.
Franck Belochi
January 6, 2008
Mary will always stay in our hearts.
Being the Belochi's family from Europe we will always remember how great she was, how much she loved her son Colton, and how much positive energy she was giving to anyone around her.
She has visited us in Munich, Germany, with Colton and Mike and we have shared beautiful moments with them and our friends.
Mary had a high sensibility for people, arts, cultures and also a marvellous sense of humour. She will always stay in our memory !
Franck, Stefanie, Rebecca and Rosalie Belochi. Paris/France
Sarah Lulloff
January 5, 2008
I am a friend and fan of Mary.I have such admiration for Mary and all her unique artistic abilities and passions ... cooking, playing the piano by ear, crafts, and art. Her sense of humor and laughter ran so deep; Mary was so genuine... such an individual thinker.
Although I have not seen Mary for a couple of years, I felt connected, and I will miss her deeply ...I sincerely feel her presence.
My deepest sympathy to Colton and all of her family.
I Love you, Mary ...
Sarah
Marguerite Layrisson
January 5, 2008
Mary showed my children and I the true meaning of hospitality in September of 2005 after Hurricaine Katrina. Somehow she knew what we really needed and gave generously of her friendship.
I will always remember her warm smile, elegant graciousness and her fun sense of humor. One night the kids didn't want to eat their veggies but they really wanted to eat their dessert. She solved the problem by plopping whipped cream right on top of the broccoli! The kids loved it and we had a great laugh.
I didn't know her very long, or very well, but she made a huge impression on my life and my family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike, Colton and her family and friends.
Jan Brock
January 5, 2008
Amongst many other things I will miss Mary's warm and open hospitality -a family feature-, her sense of humour, her aim to make the world look nicer through art and her astonishing musical talent. Her visit with Colton and Mike on Fehmarn and my stay in Colorado (getting started with the galary) will remain unforgetable memories. Ruhe in Frieden, Jan
Katrin Windsor
January 5, 2008
Mary was my best friend for several years. I will miss the giggles, her wit, her electrifying smile, her generosity and greater-than-life personality. She added a wonderful spark to "the Windsors" life and John, Bryan, Daniel and I will miss her a lot. She left a message the day before her passing saying "I love you!, well, girl, I love you too. I can feel your energy and know you're well. You go girl. Thanks for everything!
Heather Collaton
January 5, 2008
To my dear friend, Mary Belochi: I will miss your beautiful smile and your laughter; your contagious enthusiasm and support for big, contemporary art and the artists that make it, and, we will all miss your zeal for Boulder and its institutions. It is with deep sadness that we must say goodbye all too soon, yet, it was a great pleasure to know you while you were here.
Barbara Andrews
January 5, 2008
I first met Mary at a dinner at our house in Boulder which she attended with Mike and Colton. I was instantly drawn to her. The warmth of her personality matched the beautiful, sun-filled summer evening, and her smile sparkled. She was vivacious and full of fun and conversation. Colton was quite a young boy then and it was clearly evident how close Mary was to him and how she cherished and loved him. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time together. I have thought of that evening, with its fun and companionship, spiced with Mary's glowing presence, many times since. At this time of loss, our family sends our love and sympathy to Colton and Mike, as well as all of Mary's family and friends. Mary's spirit will forever live through you, just as Mary will always be a big part of our Boulder community. --Barbara Andrews and Dennis Tharp, Boulder, CO
John, Katrin, Bryan and Daniel Windsor
January 4, 2008
Mary, Mike, and Colton were among our earliest friends in Boulder and we shared so many wonderful experiences together. Mary's generosity, humor, love, and grace were truly special. We miss her deeply, but are forever grateful that she was a part of our lives. Sweet dreams, dear friend.
Colleen Newlin
January 3, 2008
Mary has been my Beautiful Friend for 22 years. In 1989 she accompanied me to my first Art Trade Show in L.A. I watched as the Art World grabbed her Heart and never let go. I see and feel her beauty, brightness, creativity and Spirit as I write this and I am grateful for our time together and ALL that was possible to experience by being her friend. Love you Always, Girlfriend XOXO
Beth and Ernie Mark
January 1, 2008
We are so shocked and sad to hear about Mary's death. She was such a good friend who always welcomed us at the gallery with a huge smile and wonderful energy. Our sympathy goes out to her family.
Lauren Goldsmith-Feiler
December 30, 2007
I was so shocked and saddened to read of Mary's death. She was someone I truly admired and was looking forward to spending more time with her in 2008. It's hard to make sense of this, she was taken too soon, leaving behind many friends and loved ones. Her family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Susan Crouse-Kemp
December 30, 2007
Mary was so supportive of emerging artists. She was so wonderful to invite me into the gallery. I can hardly believe I won't see her beautiful smile again. May the wonderful memories everyone has of Mary lift them up through the grief of this tragic loss.
Susan Crouse-Kemp
Emilie Horne
December 29, 2007
Mary was always an encouraging voice to me as an artist she showed at Exhibitrek. I admired her enthusiasm and the light she shown out to the world. I looked forward to every interaction I had with her and am so, so sad to hear of her death. I know there will be a hole in the world of family and friends who were around her for a long, long time to come.
Norm Gibson
December 29, 2007
Mary was a graduate and active supporter of Boulder's Rebuilding Seminars, a community for adults in transition.
With us, she easily developed a large circle of friends, and literally gave us the keys to her inspiring Gallery for our meetings.
We'll miss you, Mary, and your gifts of perception, beauty, humor and compassion.
Julie Hansen
December 29, 2007
I miss my sister Mary so very much. No one could ever foresee this tragic event. Mary, may you rest in peace for all time, I love you and I will hold you in my heart forever.
Lutz and Donna Ruhe
December 28, 2007
We are so saddened to hear this tragic, tragic news. No words can express our sympathy to Colton, Michael, and Mary's family. They are in our thoughts.
Judy Campbell
December 28, 2007
As one of the artists she represented and someone who worked at her gallery I was a friend. Mary was the type of person you don't forget. She was a force and she loved art and her artists. She is gone too soon and I will miss her.
Michael Belochi
December 28, 2007
Mary and I were married from 1995 through 2006. Though I became an ex-husband, I never stopped being a big fan of her energy, beauty, and passions for life.
Mary loved our son Colton and her love and influences will be forever embedded in him; these I will cherish and embrace for all time.
In loving memory, Michael Belochi
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