Demy was born on November 8, 1947, as the eldest of 7 children to Demetrio Sr. and Vicenta (née Pimo) Bello in Nagpanaoan, Santa, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Demy spent his childhood working hard on the family farm while attending school. In 1968, a 21-year-old Demy enlisted in the U.S. Navy and embarked on a journey that would take him around the world. Demy’s photo albums are filled with pictures of him, and his suave mustache, in front of landmarks all over Europe, the Pacific, and the U.S.
After being stationed in Illinois in the late 1970s, Demy was introduced to his future wife, Elnora (née Hipol) through mutual friends while she was studying Nursing at the University of Michigan. After an exciting courtship, in which Demy asked Nora to marry him on multiple occasions, Demy finally won over Nora’s heart and she agreed to marry him. Their civil wedding occurred in July 1981, the wedding ceremony took place in Great Lakes, IL on September 5, 1981, and soon, their first son Danny was born in May 1982. After a couple of moves, the family of 3 permanently relocated to Silverdale, WA in 1986 after being stationed at the Naval Base in Bremerton, WA. Demy and Nora’s second son, Edward, was born in February 1988.
To spend more time with his young sons, Demy retired from the Navy and worked as a baker for the Central Kitsap School District. Their home was constantly filled with the scent of baked goods: Whether it was cookies, cakes, or homemade pandesal, Demy filled both hearts and stomachs with his acts of love.
After retiring in 2014, Demy and Nora spent their time visiting family and friends, taking road trips, and enjoying cruises around Mexico.
Sadly, Nora’s passing in December 2015 tremendously affected Demy. However, as time moved forward, Demy soon found a rekindled joy in life after the birth of his granddaughter Elliott and his continued travels with his companion Joyce Bagby - including a trip to China.
Demy embodied what it meant to be a selfless man. To know Demy, meant experiencing the depth of love he carried for his family and friends. No request was too imposing for Demy, and he responded with kindness. Demy watched over his circle, no matter the geographical location. You would often hear him on a phone call with his family in the Philippines, old shipmates in California, or friends from the United Ilocanos of Puget Sound (UIPS). He was a man who made sure everyone was taken care of while enjoying life in the process.
In the weeks that have followed Demy’s passing, there has been an immense outpouring of love from all corners of the globe. It is easy to merely acknowledge Demy’s impact on those he knew, but to see it physically in every person who has come forward with stories, condolences, and love is transcendent of this world. Demy was and continues to be a rare form of human love: A love that gives with every being of its soul while expecting nothing in return.
We have a long, difficult road ahead of us as we mourn our son, father, brother, uncle, and compadre, but let us find comfort in knowing that Demy is reunited with his sweetheart, Nora. Let us show Demy that we are taken care of and that he can rest. We will forever have his love to guide us through life.
Demy was predeceased by his wife Nora and his father Demetrio Sr. He is survived by his mother Vicenta, his sons Danny & wife Emily and Edward & wife Jessica, his granddaughter Elliott, his siblings Jose Bello (Cora), Irene Pimo, Amelia Paul (Robert), Sergio Bello (May), Rogelio Bello (Mirasol), and Lourdes Angevine (Ron), his many nieces and nephews and his companion Joyce Bagby.
Services will be held at Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home: Visitation will take place on March 8th between 10 am-5 pm and Demy’s Celebration of Life will be on March 9th at 11 am.
The funeral service may be viewed live online by clicking "Join Livestream" within the service information below.
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