Harold Belford

Harold (Spike) E. Belford, 88, of Torch Lake, passed away Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Harold was born on June 2, 1922, the son of John W. and Lavina M. (Robinson) Belford in Flint, Michigan. Spike graduated from Davison High School and General Motor Institute; on June 13, 1942 he married Norma Shorey his high school sweetheart. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1943 and proudly served our country on the USS Teton in South Pacific until 1945. During his years of service he was involved in the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the South Pacific and witnessed the signing of the Peace Agreement in Tokyo Harbor. The former mayor of Davison, Michigan and owner of Belford Motors retired and moved to his Torch lake residence in 1971. Spike was a lifelong member of the Elks, Masonic Lodge, and Shiners. He was an avid golfer and card player, and loved boating and swimming in Torch Lake. His greatest joys came from spending time with family and entertaining friends at his Torch Lake home. He is survived by his daughter, Jill (David) Straight of Torch Lake and Portage, MI; son, Brian (Lynn) Belford of Springhill, TN; sister, Lois Ciesielski; granddaughter's sterling (Marc) Guidry, Lacey Straight, and Whitney Straight; great-grandchildren Marcus and Heidi; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and close friends. Spike was preceded in death by his wife, of 60 years, Norma in 2002; an infant daughter, Gayle Lois in 1944, and son, John Arthur in 1969. A memorial service celebrating Spike's life will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at the Traverse City Elks Lodge. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, Dept 77-3968, Chicago, IL 60678-3968. Please sign Spike's guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com