Ernest Edward Belden, 85, passed away Thursday, June 17, 2010, in ManorCare Health Services, Springfield, Mo. He was born February 19, 1925, in Minneapolis, Kan., to Edward and Lottie (Benwell) Belden, the youngest of 10 children.
On December 22, 1956, he was united in marriage to Charlene Sechler. He taught industrial arts for 30 years, the final 20 years at Glendale High School, retiring in 1984. Mr. Belden was a World War II Navy Veteran (1943-1946). His ship participated in the retaking of the Philippine Islands and other Pacific Theater Battles. His interests included gardening, fishing, upholstering, woodworking, and being a grandpa. He was an active member of University Heights Baptist Church.
Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Althea Spencer, Irma Duryee, Lala Gooch, and Libbie Lambeth; five brothers, Richard, Orlee, Ray, Lee, and Harvey Belden.
Survivors include his loving wife of the home, Charlene; son, Lance (Linda) Belden, of Lenexa, Kan.; daughter, Ceanne (Darrell) Yates, of Mt. Juliet, Tenn.; and four beloved grandsons, Brice and Evan Belden, and Andy and Alex Yates.
Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m., Sunday, June 20, in Greenlawn South Funeral Home. A celebration of Ernest’s life will be held in the University Heights Baptist Church Chapel, at 10 a.m., Monday, June 21, 2010, with burial following in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens with military honors provided.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assciation or the American Cancer Society.