Mr. Juan Eugene Belle

Mr. Juan Eugene Belle, 74, of Peoria, IL passed away at 2:13 pm on Monday, August 12, 2024 at his residence surrounded by his family.
Juan was born on December 1, 1949 in Providence, KY to Donald and Joyce (Woolfolk) Belle. His early education began in Kentucky and was a graduate of Providence High School.
After high school, Juan was inducted into the US Army, honorably serving during the Vietnam Conflict from 1969 to 1971. During his tour of duty, he received several awards including: the National Defense Service Medal, Marksman Badge, Vietnam Service Medal and an Overseas Service Bar. Upon the end of his tour of duty, Juan also served in the US Army Reserves terminating in 1975.
Juan moved to Peoria, IL where he met and married the love of his life, Helen Gordon. They married on February 17, 1974. To their union one son was born, Aaron.
Juan worked as an Assembler at Caterpillar, Inc.; retiring in 2013 after 37 years of service. He was an avid fisherman. He lived for fishing with his son, Aaron, who was his best friend. He was a hell of a father and his son wanted all to know that he would not be the man he is if it wasn't for his father. Juan was an amazing family man who adored his wife, son, daughter-n-law, Aly and granddaughter, Aaliyah and his entire family. He prided himself on spending quality time with them. He was a man of great spiritual strength. Juan was a faithful member of St. Luke M.B. Church where he served as a member of the Laymen's.
Juan leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving and devoted wife of 50 years, Helen Belle of Peoria, IL; one son, Aaron (Aly) Belle of Rancho Mission Viejo, CA; siblings, Donna (Bill) Stafford of Madisonville, KY, Wayne (Anita) Belle of Providence, KY, Reba Lawrence of Providence, KY, Myra Belle of Providence, KY, Carlos (Jennifer) Belle of Bloomington, IL and Leah Grayer of Peoria, IL; one grandchild, Aaliyah Belle and a host of other relatives and friends (including his best friends Bobby Walker and Joseph McLeod) who loved him. He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Michael Belle and Ronnie Belle.
Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Prince of Peace M.B. Church with a visitation one-hour prior beginning at 10 am. The Host Pastor is Rev. Simon J. Holly, Jr. Pastor Benjamin Nicks, Jr. of St. Luke M.B. Church will officiate. Juan will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery with Military Honors.
Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.