John Michael Belon

July 1, 1940 – November 15, 2024
John Michael Belon, better known as Johnny or UJ, passed into God's loving arms in his home, after a very short illness, surrounded by his greatly loved and devoted wife, Janice; children, Roseanna Misnik (Geoff) and Tamara Scotese (Vito); grandchildren, Hannah Spieker (with Kevin) and Olivia Spieker. He was gifted by God to pass into His arms in a very quiet, peaceful, but sometimes noisy environment, where he wanted to be, in the family room by 'his' chair with his big screen TV.
He was the son of John and Rose Belon, deceased, and brother to James Norman Belon, deceased. He is survived by his sister Judith Lynn McTighe and his Misnik step-grandchildren, Leasa, Andru and Sallee; and step-greatgrandchildren, Natalee and Benjamyn; his Scotese step-grandchildren, Vito and Bella; and step-great-granddaughter, Saige.
Johnny was a Navy veteran, serving as a radioman from 1958 to 1962. He was stationed in Port Lyautey, Morocco. He was then stationed on the USS Waller and USS Holder, where he held on to his typewriter while translating Morse code messages and also his bunk for dear life as they fought through those severe North Atlantic storms. He had many great stories to tell about all the marvelous adventures he experienced during the four years he served, including being onboard ship for the Bay of Pigs invasion.
He finally worked up the courage to propose to his 'girlfriend' that he met in December of 1958 while on leave. They planned and then had a July 13, 1963 wedding at St. Stephen's Byzantine Catholic Church on Lloyd Road in Euclid. Following their marriage, they then had a home built in Mentor, which they moved into in 1966. They settled into married and family life, raising their two magnificent children and later welcoming their two fantastic, beautiful and also magnificent granddaughters. Being the absolutely perfect "Mr. Mom", he had the honor of being more than just a Dad and Granddad to his children and grandchildren but an integral part of every aspect of their lives. He fed, clothed, bathed, dressed, (and changed diapers) and eventually entertained and carpooled them to all of their activities.
Johnny had many passions including fishing, bowling and hunting. He cherished family vacations in New England, where he and his family would explore the beauty of the forests, ocean and mountains. One of their favorite spots was Mount Desert Island in Maine, eating lobsters and clams on Beal's Pier, walking the many paths and freezing their feet in 10 seconds trying to walk into the ocean. He also loved gathering with family and friends, especially those special times spent with his lifelong best friends, Gary and Jaye (Justine), who were like family.
Johnny enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, whether it was taking long drives to wherever the road led, visiting casinos (win or lose), going out for dinner, or simply sitting in a park, enjoying nature and reflecting on life.
Johnny will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His family, friends, and loved ones are comforted by the countless memories of his generosity, warmth, and humor. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Johnny's memory.
-Lovingly written by the Belon Family
Arrangements are entrusted to McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Homes in Willoughby and Mentor.
To leave condolences to the family, visit www.MCVfuneralhomes.com.