January 4, 1946 — November 11, 2020

 “We have a lot to be thankful for.” —Mike Bellinger, November 1, 2020

Michael Claude Bellinger, 74, passed away Wednesday, November 11, at St. Joseph Medical Center following a month-long illness (not COVID).

He was born January 4, 1946, in Ames, Iowa, to Carolyn (Kirby) and Leslie C. Bellinger, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Ames High and from Iowa State University. He subsequently earned an MBA from Drake University.

At age 11, Mike became a licensed Amateur Radio Operator (“HAM” call sign KØUAA), an interest that would be lifelong. He earned an Extra Class license, inspired many others to become involved in the hobby, and taught classes to help others obtain their license. Through amateur radio, he volunteered with Jackson County Amateur Radio Emergency Services to provide vital communications backup when normal communications systems fail, notably in severe weather situations. Mike was a trained weather spotter and often served as net control when local weather watches and warnings were issued.

As a member of the Heart of America Radio Club (WØRR), Mike hosted a radio check-in net for hams in the area every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. Through this club, Mike recruited local hams to provide communications for Johnson County Parks and Recreation District biathlons and triathlons. Mike served as editor for the monthly HARC Herald newsletter.

A natural adjunct to his ham radio service was volunteerism with the American Red Cross local and regional chapters. Mike was part of the Disaster Services Technology Team, helping to make sure responders had the technology and communications resources needed to successfully provide relief to victims during disasters of any nature (tornadoes, earthquakes, fire, floods, structural collapse, etc.). His work with the Red Cross spanned the last 38 years.

Mike eagerly cheered on the Chiefs, NASCAR and Formula motorsports (favoring local drivers). He appreciated legitimate theater and the symphony, and spending a day at a museum. He loved Motown music and college a cappella, Kansas City barbecue and New England lobster rolls.     

Mike is survived by his wife (and teammate) of 48 years, Beverly, and his beloved daughter, Leah (and Shelley Perlin), numerous cousins, and treasured friends.

Mike’s rich and varied life will be celebrated in a memorial service when it is safe and prudent to do so. Until then, please reflect on your association with Mike and your favorite memory. If inclined, share it on the remembrance pages. His family will treasure it.

If desired, memorials to honor Mike may be made to

ARRL (American Radio Relay League)

American Red Cross

First Lutheran Church

Or to a charity important to your life

Memorial Addresses, Contact info:

Amateur Radio

          American Radio Relay League

          http://www.arrl.org/memorial-gifts

          Or mail your check payable to ARRL to:
                   ARRL
                   225 Main Street
                   Newington CT 06111-1400

American Red Cross (or local chapter)

          https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/

          Or mail to:

                    Red Cross Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri
                    6601 Winchester Ave., Suite 110 
                    Kansas City, MO 64133

First Lutheran Church

6400 State Line Road

Mission Hills, KS 66208

          https://firstlutherankc.com/