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Michael Bellinger

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 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 2, 2021 at First Lutheran Church, 6400 State Line Rd., Mission Hills, Kansas. A brief, informal visitation with the family preceding the service will take place in the narthex of the church from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

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/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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Services

Additional Service: Visitation
Location: First Lutheran Church
Address: 6400 State Line Road
City: Mission Hills
State: Kansas
Zip Code: 66208
Date of Service: Oct 02, 2021
Time of Service: 10:15 am
Additional Information: No Additional Information Added
Google Map: Click Here to see Location on Map
Additional Service: Celebration of Life
Location: First Lutheran Church
Address: 6400 State Line Road
City: Mission Hills
State: Kansas
Zip Code: 66208
Date of Service: Oct 02, 2021
Time of Service: 11:00 am
Additional Information: No Additional Information Added
Google Map: Click Here to see Location on Map

Condolences

Jean Cooper Nov 18, 2020

Ham radio friend ,Shawnee ,Kansas

I am sorry for your loss. Mike had been a good friend over many years. He will be missed by many

Ginny and Gary Otteson Nov 19, 2020

Friends. ,Midway ,Utah

Our deepest condolences go out to Bev, Leah and the entire Bellinger family at this untimely passing of Mike. All of our love to you all.

John Colle Nov 22, 2020

new acquaintance ,Blue Springs ,Missouri

To Mike's Family, I didn't know Mike, but the photograph in the newspaper inspired me to read more. Mike's red shirt proclaimed American Red Cross. My own Father, Red Colle, was a professional with the A.R.C. for over 50 years. His last position in Colorado was as Director of Disaster Services. I always admired him for the countless rescues he made and families he helped over those years. Likewise, I am in awe of Mike's selfless decades in service to others. He led a special life and will, I'm sure, long be remembered by those whose lives he touched.

Chet Hallberg Nov 22, 2020

Red Cross, Ham Radio, Radio Club, Public service events ,Prarie Village ,Kansas

Mike the ROCK,he was always in the right place at the right time. The radio community as a whole will mourn the passing of Mike. 73 Mike RIP

Cathy King and CWAC Nov 23, 2020

Dear Beverly, The Canines With a Cause Crew sends loving thoughts and prayers. So very sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Cathy & the CWAC Crew

Vernon Rowland Nov 26, 2020

Mike was an inspiration to me. He will be sorely missed . My deepest sympathy.

Dawn Olney Nov 28, 2020

Zion friend ,Prairie Village ,Kansas

Hi Bev and Leah, I just heard about Mike. I’m so sorry. It’s been quite a while since we talked, but I do think of you often. Please know you are in my thoughts. With love, Dawn

Dennis & Randi Gedeon Nov 30, 2020

Friend ,Bonners Ferry ,Idaho

Bev and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Mike was a friend and mentor to me since I had moved to the KC area back in 1991. We shared many a conversation discussing our ARES activities to include storm spotting. May the good memories sustain all of us doing this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and family. Regards, Dennis and Randi Gedeon

Marie Gonzales Dec 02, 2020

Friend of Bev ,Lee’s Summit ,Missouri

My deepest condolences Bev and Leah

Douglas Sheldahl Dec 10, 2020

Cousin ,Johnston ,Iowa

I’m so sorry for your loss. I will miss seeing you both over Memorial Day.

Jeffrey Reed Jan 11, 2021

Childhood friend of Leah's ,Pensacola ,Florida

Mrs. Bellinger and Leah, My heartfelt sympathies for your loss. I just learned about this news today. It's been years since we've seen each other, but I still remember that intimidating looking transceiver sitting in your living room and how much Mr. Bellinger enjoyed tinkering with it. I pray that the peace and strength of God are carrying you through all of this.

Richard Black Feb 14, 2021

High School Classmate ,Bluffton ,South Carolina

I just read about Mike's passing. My condolences. Mike and I were high school classmates. I became interested in amateur radio a bit later than Mike. My dad got me interested in the hobby and I am now licensed as N0FXQ. My son and his family live in Maryville, so I'm a bit familiar with northwest MO.

Tom Ellett Sep 24, 2021

Life long friend ,San Diego ,California

My condolences go out to Beverly, Leah and the family on the loss of Mike. Mike and I grew up together in Ames, Iowa and he inspired me to become an amateur radio operator W0NI (my call sign). As a result, ham radio has been my life long hobby. Mike was also a groomsman in my 1971 wedding (now 50 years ago). I’ll always remember the great fun we had as young me growing up in Ames.