Kenneth James Belonga

Kenneth James Belonga was born on May 14, 1955 in Petoskey and was raised in St. Ignace Michigan. He was a member of the Sault Ste Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. He attended LaSalle High School and graduated in 1973 as senior class president, where his promise to his fellow classmates was a jukebox in the cafeteria. He attended Central Michigan University and Lansing Community College where he studied Radio Broadcasting. He moved to Lansing Michigan where he raised his family and worked as a driver for UPS for 34 years, retiring in 2011.

Anyone who knew Ken, knew his love for the outdoors and nature. He was happiest when he was outside running. He completed two marathons and multiple 25k races. He spent countless summers up north in St. Ignace at Rabbit's Back Peak with his family. If he was not there, he could be found at Lake Michigan on the beach throwing the frisbee. He lived his life with a full heart and a free spirit. He loved to travel and made friends wherever he went. His passion for reading led him to spend many hours at the local bookstore connecting with other fellow readers and engaging in enlightening conversation. He was on a weekly bowling league and also enjoyed a competitive game of ping pong any chance he could get. He was a loving father and grandfather to his family; three children, Nate, Chelsea, and Ellen, and grandchildren Rosario and Scarlett; and a devoted partner to Bart.

He is preceded in death by his ex-wife, Tamara Belonga; his youngest daughter, Ellen Belonga; his parents George and Gladys Belonga; and his best friend and dog Charlie.

He is survived by his son, Nathaniel (Megan) Belonga; daughter Chelsea (Topher) Barber; two grandchildren, Rosario Jarrett, and Scarlett Barber; partner, Bart Schneider; brother, Michael 'Chico' Belonga, brother Wayne (Cheryl) Belonga; brother Donald Belonga; brother Jeff Belonga; sister Gloria (Diane) Louder; and many nieces and nephews.

Ken passed away at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo on May 7, 2018, after suffering injuries from a fall at his home.

Funeral Services will be Friday, May 11 at 6:00 pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home at 900 E Michigan Ave, Lansing Michigan. A visitation will take place from 6:00-7:00, with a service following.