On Christmas Eve, 2022, John Edward Belton, at the age of 63, left this world for
his next adventure. John leaves behind a legacy of being known for living life to its
fullest and cherishing the times he had with his family and friends. His charm, wit and
sense of humor endeared him to everyone he met.

John was born on July 8, 1959 in Worcester, MA. John leaves behind three
beloved children: Nicholas Belton and his wife Marissa, Jackson Belton and Savannah
(Soleil) Belton, of San Diego, California and a precious granddaughter, Isabella Belton,
also of San Diego, CA. John was born in Worcester, MA to Claire A. (Welcome) Belton
and the late Edward W. Belton. John was the oldest of six siblings: Stephen P. Belton
and wife Bozena; Robert F. Belton, both of Worcester, and Kevin R. Belton and wife
Karen of Exeter, N.H.; and two sisters, Theresa Gould and husband Thomas, from
North Brookfield, MA and Catherine Thibeault and husband William, of Spencer, MA.
John entered the U.S. Marine Corps upon graduation from North High School. It
was here that his love for travel began to emerge after serving in Okinawa prior to
completing his service to his country. Following his service in the marines, John
attended and graduated from Worcester State College before moving to San Diego.
While attending Worcester State College, John was a team member of the winning
1987 NEFC South Division Title, MASCAC Champions and NEFC Championship Game
Finalist in football.

Throughout his life, John always enjoyed working in fields that revolved around
engaging with people. He worked as a mental health counselor and guided and
supported both troubled teens and veterans. His compassion and empathy positively
impacted the people who he encountered in this work. John’s passion for people and
travel was also highlighted in his work as a sales representative for NU Life Sciences
which provided medical services and equipment for those in need. John shared his love
for gardening while working at the Farmers’ Market in Poway, CA., which allowed him to
interact with many different people in a way that helped promote a healthy lifestyle
through healthy living within his community.

John was known for making the most out of his life. Football and sports remained
a large part of John’s life. He enjoyed sports and could often be found hiking mountains
and competing in races, including triathlons. He loved a good cup of coffee, a good
book, a good glass of wine and spending time with the many friends he had in California
and here in Massachusetts. If there was a jazz or blue’s festival to attend, John was
there. He was quick to smile and had an infectious laugh that endeared him to many
people.

A funeral mass will be held on February 4th at 11 am in St. John’s Church, 44
Temple St, Worcester, MA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the
Wounded warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka KS 66675. A Celebration of Life will
be held immediately following the mass at the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Center, 19
Temple St, Worcester, MA.