In loving memory of
Robert Belote

• March 18, 1941
• -
• February 22, 2023

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Robert Belote, age 81, of Bonita Springs, FL passed away on February 22, 2023, after a brave battle with Brain Cancer. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 37 years Marylou Belote, parents Waldo and Marion Belote, son Bryan Belote and sister Marylou Thornton.

Robert was born in Marshall, MI on March 18, 1941. He graduated from Tekonsha High School in 1959. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corp from 1959-1963. Robert accepted a patrolman position with the Battle Creek Police Department in 1963. He was promoted to Detective in 1976. He spent 12 years conducting criminal investigations. In 1988, he was promoted to Sergeant and was assigned to supervise the Special Investigations Unit. He ended his career supervising the Neighborhood Enforcement Team, retiring from the department in 1993. Robert also spent time as an instructor in criminal investigations, was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, and served as the president of the Battle Creek Police Relief Association.

In 1997, Robert moved to Bonita Springs, FL. While there, Robert continued employment with the Shadow Wood Country Club. He also built a successful home watch and handyman business. He enjoyed spending time with his family and being a Papa to his grandsons. He developed a passion for wood turning and could be found working in his garage on various projects at all hours. He loved riding motorcycles, golfing and a good cigar.

Robert is survived by his children Brent Belote of Grand Rapids, MI, Robin (Jamieson) Dill of East Grand Rapids, MI, Michael Zuiderveen of Byron Center, MI; sisters-in-law Nancy (Ron) DenBesten of Bonita Springs, FL, Robin Tinholt of Cedar, MI and Kristin Petersen of Boyne City, MI; grandsons Garrett and Jackson Dill, several nieces and nephews and wonderful friends.

A joint celebration of life is being planned for Robert and Marylou Belote on Wednesday, March 15 at Highland Woods Country Club in Bonita Springs, FL at 5 pm and on Sunday, April 16 at the Grand Rapids Yacht Club in East Grand Rapids, MI at 4 pm. Memorial Contributions can be made to the Inspector Marylou and Sergeant Robert Belote Scholarship Fund at https://bccfoundation.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=5851