Elaine “Jo” Catherine Belchak, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away on March 21, 2024, at the age of 77 in her hometown of Standish, MI, where she was also born on January 9, 1947. Elaine was the embodiment of thoughtfulness, touching the lives of many with her calm and joyful spirit.
Surviving Elaine are her devoted daughters, Debra and Kimberly Belchak, and her cherished son, Roger (MaryAnne) Belchak. She took immense pride in her role as a grandmother to Roger Raymond Belchak. Elaine’s memory will additionally be held dear by several nieces and nephews, her loving sister Delina Shannon, brother-in-law, Raymond Pross and grand dog, Bo. She now reunites in peace with her beloved husband, Roger Louis Belchak, her mother and father, Orville and Lillian (Nott) Cousineau, her sister Dianna (Ed) Pross, Bernadine Pross, her infant sister Darlene Cousineau, her brother Clyde (Marge) Neid and her brother-in-law, Howard Shannon.
Elaine’s life story began as a farm girl in Standish, where she learned the value of hard work and family. Her destiny took a romantic turn at a drive-in in Pinconning, MI, where she met the love of her life, Roger. They wed on August 20, 1966, and together built a life full of love and laughter in Standish, MI. Elaine’s passion for beauty led her down a vibrant path as a cosmetologist until her much-deserved retirement in 2007.
Those who knew her recall Elaine as the heart of her family and community. She was the consummate caregiver, often found visiting family and friends in need, offering a helping hand as the best house sitter, dog sitter, and babysitter one could have. Elaine navigated life’s challenges with grace and a smile, adept at soothing worries and enhancing joys.
Her hobbies were entwined with her love for her family and friends. Elaine relished the simplicity and connection that came with camping, fishing, and hunting. However, her most treasured moments were those spent playing cards and enjoying daily quality time with her grandson.
Elaine will always be remembered as a loving, selfless, and thoughtful soul who cherished the bonds of family above all. Her gentle guidance and unwavering warmth have left an indelible mark that will continue to glow brightly in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Elaine’s legacy is one of kindness, joy, and an enduring commitment to those she loved, a legacy that will resonate for generations to come.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 11:00 am at Resurrection of The Lord Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Ronald Wagner presiding. Friends may visit at Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home, Standish, Michigan, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 2:00 to 7:00 pm with a Prayer Service beginning at 7:00pm. Friends and family may also visit on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the church from 10:00 am until the time of Mass.
