Michael Belba

04/05/1949 — 10/03/2024

From Richland, WA | Born in Hermiston, OR

Michael Belba

On October 3, 2024, Michael Douglas Belba leapt into the welcoming arms of Jesus and was embraced by his loved ones who preceded him.
Mike was born April 5,1949 in Hermiston, Oregon to Michael Daniel Belba and Velta Laverne (Harvey) Belba, pastors of a small church there. Together, Mike (Nickname: Chipper) and his mother, Velta, navigated life’s path with resilience after the loss of his father when Chipper was just two and a half years old. Their journey took them to Cleveland, Tennessee where Velta finished her degree and little Chipper acquired a charming drawl. The two of them settled in Wapato, Washington before moving to Kennewick, Washington, where Michael graduated from Kamiakin High School.
Michael was exceptionally brilliant and prospered as a stock broker, realtor, and web designer. He was gifted with a mesmerizingly beautiful voice, and for several years he was asked to sing the national anthem (a cappella) for the ice hockey matches at Toyota Arena in Kennewick. Mike also traveled extensively bringing home some tokens of goodness from each country.
Golfing was a passion for Mike and his natural skill outshone most others. He shared that passion with Nancy Collins, his beloved partner of eighteen years. Those years were filled with laughter and countless memorable rounds on the green.
Following Nancy’s passing 5 years ago, Mike faced a difficult journey of many health challenges. Yet his determination and desire to push through was admired by all of us.
We will miss Mike’s keen mind, the love he had for those close to him, his fierce independence and the joy he found in the companionship of his wonderful pets.
A heartfelt thank you to his neighbors, close friends and caregivers, (especially Adrianna Hickson) who enriched Mike’s life with their kindness and support. Special gratitude is extended to Paul Robinson, Terri Horton-Getchell and Marjorie Centeno-Aguimbag for their unwavering friendship.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Velta, and his beloved Nancy. He is survived by his cousins, Valerie Barger Smick (Neal) and Debra Barger Smith (Stephen), along with their families. He is also survived by many beloved relatives from the Belba, Craig, Harvey and Haddox families.
In honoring his wishes, no formal service will be held. Instead, we invite all who knew and loved Mike to remember him in their hearts and celebrate the goodness he leaves behind.

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Michael Belba

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  • My sweet Cousin Belba. I met you when I was 8 years old. Then I met you again and got to know you when you were a freshman at Lee College. I felt an immediate connection and live for you. We have kept in touch over the years – but not enough. I will miss your spirit.

    Mickey Baskett
    October 15, 2024
    Decatur, GA
  • My deepest sympathy to Michael’s friends who surrounded him with much love and care. He sounded like a wonderful person and appeared to be a very successful individual. I’m sure he will be missed by many.

    Linda Belba Tessmer
    October 7, 2024
    PICKERINGTON, Ohio
  • Michael, I can’t find words to describe how special and best person you are. Thank you for sharing the word of God to me everyday, thank you for praying with me, thank you for all the love and support you’ve given to me for the past 8 years. Thank you for being the best Boss and Best godfather to me and my husband. You will never be forgotten. You will forever be in my heart and memories. Thank you for molding me professiobaly and who I am now in the digital marketing industry. May you rest in eternal peace forever inthe arms of Jesus Christ our Lord. We will miss you and love you always!

    Marjorie Centeno-Aguimbag
    October 7, 2024
    Philippines
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