February 8, 1939 – June 21, 2026
It is with both sorrow and gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Lorene L. Belko, 87, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, faithful friend, and devoted servant of God whose life reflected unwavering faith, selfless service, and unconditional love.
Lorene's Christian faith was the foundation of everything she did. With a humble spirit, she gave God the glory for every blessing and every opportunity to serve. Her steadfast trust in the Lord guided her daily life and inspired her family, church, and community.
For more than 44 years, Lorene faithfully served the Turlock Seventh-day Adventist Church as Administrative Assistant and Treasurer. Beginning in 1980, after marrying her beloved husband, Ivan, and moving from Colorado to Turlock, she became a constant and welcoming presence in the church office. Working alongside eight pastors over four decades, she was often the first face people encountered—a source of kindness, encouragement, wisdom, and compassionate care. Her ministry extended far beyond her job title; she quietly ministered to countless individuals through listening, counseling, prayer, and acts of service.
Music was another expression of Lorene's faith. She served as an organist, pianist, vocalist, and a member of the Ladies Trio, The Grace Notes, sharing God's love through music. She also traveled throughout the world with the Belko Brass, participating in evangelistic meetings across Russia, Africa, the Philippines, and many other places, using her musical gifts to bring hope and encouragement wherever she went.
Lorene's heart for ministry reached into every area of her life. A gifted seamstress, designer, and artist, she lovingly sewed clothing for her family, including beautiful wedding dresses for her daughters. She also used her talents to support mission work, accepting mending projects and donating the proceeds to missions. Whether through music, sewing, hospitality, or simply offering a listening ear, Lorene found joy in serving others.
While her service to the church was remarkable, her greatest earthly ministry was her family. Lorene and Ivan lovingly raised a blended family of six children, and she embraced each one with unwavering, prayer-filled love. She expressed that love not only with words but through countless sacrifices, acts of kindness, and faithful prayers. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, where family and friends gathered around meals, laughter, and fellowship. She delighted in creating lasting memories and treasured every opportunity to be with those she loved.
Known for her caring, compassionate nature, Lorene had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued. She was generous with her time, gracious in spirit, and always willing to help those in need. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her faith, her service, and her love.
Lorene is survived by her beloved husband of 46 years, Ivan W. Belko; her children, Patti Jo (Michael) Ensminger, Robert Belko, Ron (Laura) Belko, Richard (Pam) Belko, Rachale (Dennis) Smith, and Angela (Ryan) Ballou; her nine grandchildren, Zachary Porep, Danielle (Daryl) Hoath, Alexander (Ali) Belko, Spencer Belko, Nastasia (Wesley) Moore, Deidra Belko, Taylor (Katie) Ensminger, Alayna Belko, and Marina (David) Urbina; five great-grandchildren, Natalie Hoath, Emelia Hoath, Aubrey Porep, Asher Belko, and Millie Moore; her sister, Phyllis (John) Boggs; beloved family friend Claire Hanks; and many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Philip & Esther Lorenz, and her niece, Heather Stonner.
Though she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in the blessed hope of Christ's soon return and the promise that they will one day be reunited with her. Lorene's life was a beautiful testimony of faith, faithful service, devotion to her family, and love for God. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
A memorial service will be held in her honor on Saturday, October 3rd 2026 at 3:00pm at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Turlock, 2400 N. Olive Avenue. The family would also like to invite all who gather to join them for a light supper following the service.
