John Theodore Belcher, 80, passed away April 23, 2012, at Guardian Angel Homes in Richland, Washington.

John was born on February 22, 1932, in Nevada, Iowa, to Ivan and Blanche Belcher. He lived with and was raised by his aunt and uncle, Lou and Mame Larson of Nevada, Iowa. He graduated from Nevada High School as valedictorian in 1950. In 1954 he graduated from Iowa State College with a BS in chemical engineering. In 1955 he enlisted in the U. S. Air Force as a commissioned officer, retiring as a Major after 22 years. While in the service, he received his MBA from USC. He served in Vietnam where he received the Bronze Star. In 1976 he moved to Richland, Washington, where he worked at Hanford as an engineer, retiring in 1996.

John had many interests to keep him occupied after retiring. He enjoyed playing golf, refinishing furniture, jig saw puzzles, needle craft, and gardening.

John is survived by his wife of 23 years, Anita; daughter, Melissa Eller David of Edmonds, Washington; son, John, of San Francisco, California; step-daughter, Terri Butz Kelly of Richland, Washington; step-son, Douglas Lemke of Sammamish, Washington; step-son, David Lemke, of Richland, Washington; grandchildren Andrew, Angela, Amy, and Ashley Eller; Ashley, Brionna, and Kaylee Butz; Jared and Eric Lemke.

Preceding him in death were his parents, aunt and uncle, sister, and brother.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 5, 2012, at 1:30 p.m. in Sunset Memorial Gardens, 915 Bypass Highway in Richland, Washington. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. at the Butz residence, 340 Falconridge St. in Richland, Washington. Memorial contributions may be made to Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice in Kennewick, Washington or Fred Hutchison Research Center in Seattle, Washington.