Clair Belland

Belland, Clair R. "Curly" Kalamazoo Age 83, Clair "Curly" Ramon Belland passed away peacefully in the presence of his family on April 17, 2015. He was born in Climax on February 24, 1932, the son of Arthur and Iris (Taylor) Belland. He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1950 and thereafter proudly served in the Navy for four years. Clair married Corliss Ann Hartford in 1956, and they raised four children. He worked in construction for about 13 years, including building the house that remains the family home to this day. He then worked for Upjohn until his retirement in 1990 from the position of Department Head of the boiler plants. He and his wife spent winters in Texas for the next 21 years, where he made many friends and enjoyed the weather, golf, his cats and woodworking. Clair is survived by his loving wife; a son, Leroy; two daughters, Connie Belland (Martin) Hart and Judy Belland; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Joyce Comer and Carole (Charlie) Crawford; a brother-in-law, Brian Hartford, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert; and a son, Clayton. In accordance with his wishes cremation will take place and burial with full military honors will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, MI, on Thursday April 23, 2015 at 1:30 PM. Those attending should meet at the funeral assembly area at the entrance of the cemetery by 1:15 PM. Memorial contributions in Clair's memory may be given to Kalamazoo Animal Rescue Project or the Wounded Warrior Project, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.