Beldon Denman

Beldon “Bel” John Denman, 86, of Independence, MO crossed over to the Spirit World to meet his Creator on February 27, 2014 in his Independence, MO home. A visitation will be held from 1-2:00 p.m. followed by a 2:00 p.m. service on Monday, March 3, at the Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Burial and service will follow in his home state of Michigan. Donations are suggested to the Community of Christ Headquarters or First Peoples Community of Christ. Beldon was born September 17, 1927 in Flint, Michigan to Elizabeth (Hinman) and Neuel John Denman. Beldon was the oldest son, fourth child, of six children. Beldon attended Flint Northern High School, joined the Navy in 1945 to serve in World War II. He completed his diploma in 1947. After returning from the war, Beldon served on the Great Lakes. Beldon began working for General Motors Parts Division, Swartz Creek, MI and retired after 35 years of service. Beldon is an enrolled member of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan. Beldon was affectionately known as “Straight Arrow” by his family. Beldon was baptized at age 8 and has been a lifelong member of the Community of Christ church. He was an Elder and Pastor in several congregations. Beldon had been active in American Indian ministries for many years and attended the First People’s Circle, Community of Christ until his death. Beldon was preceded in death by Mary Frances “Fran” Denman, his wife of 54 years, 2002; his three sisters and one brother: Corona Heidel, Mary Lou Stobaugh and Lucille Dersha; and Daniel Denman; his second wife: Mildred Pitman, of five years, 2009, of Independence, MO. Surviving is one brother: Neuel “Denny” Denman, of Davison, MI; Bel and Fran’s two daughters: Deborah “Dee” Denman White Eye of Independence, MO, and Kathy Sue Denman-Wilke of Stillwater, MN; six grandchildren: Paula Renee Gravatt of Santa Cruz, CA, Angela Dee McKernan of Scotts Valley, CA, Jacob Ammon Worthington of Temecula, CA, Johnathan Dutton Denman of St. Charles, MI, Zachary Beldon Wilke and Travis Michael Wilke and Dietrich James Wilke all of Stillwater, MN; 8 great-grandchildren; and many other loving relatives and friends. Beldon married Sylvia Owens in February 2011 of Independence, MO with whom he resided until his death. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)