Ronald Albert Bellinger

Ronald A Bellinger (67) of Hiawassee Georgia formally of Marquette Heights IL passed away on Wednesday June 12th following a diagnosis of leukemia. 

Born on August third 1956 to Thomas and Shelby (Walters) Bellinger, Ron retired after a long 42 year career with Caterpillar of East Peoria IL as management in maintenance engineering. As the father of an Autistic son (Drew), Ron dedicated his time as a coach, umpire, referee and even administrator within the Special Olympics organization. His passion for the athletes and their families led to he and his wife Eva creating Central Illinois Independents. Their commitment and dedication led to lifelong friendships with numerous athletes and coaches throughout the organization. In 2015 The Bellinger family was nominated as Family of the Year by Illinois Special Olympics, and in 2018 he was selected to be their Assistant basketball Coach in the US games in Seattle Washington.

As a devout Christian, Ron was involved in all aspects of Union Hill Methodist Church, including acting as an usher, greeter,and sound tech. He also belonged to the men's club. He remained very active in his retirement. Never one to be kept idle, Ron consistently found home improvement projects and always lending a helping hand. It seemed he never met a stranger. He could be found relaxing by a fire, or on their boat.

Grieving his loss are his wife Eva (LaGage) Bellinger; his children Thomas (Marry) Bellinger, Joshua (Jessica) Wolfe, and Andrew Bellinger; grandchildren Taylor (Brett) Miller, Hailey Wolfe, Teagan Johns, one great grandson and his golden doodle " Molly girl"

Memorial Service: Monday June 17, 2024 at 1:00pm at Union Hill Methodist Church with Rev. Sharon Loyley and Rev. Winford Pitts officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Union Hill Methodist Church.