John Enrico Bellotte

October 30, 1939 – August 10, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel John Enrico Bellotte. John passed suddenly to be with the Lord, and reunited with his loved ones in heaven, on August 10, 2024. Born on October 30, 1939 in Clarksburg, West Virginia. John lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a profound love for his God, family and friends.

John graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, 1963 and served his country with honor and distinction until his retirement in July 1991. During his illustrious career, he flew four tours in Vietnam in B-52s and served in various locations including Thailand, Korea, Germany, and multiple bases across the United States. After retiring from the Air Force, John continued to share his passion for aviation by running the Ramstein Aero Club from July 1991 to June 1996. He finished his working life at SAIC in Ramstein, Germany in 2004.

He found true love and married Nancy Gilgan, on June 17, 1965. They shared thirty-seven wonderful years, and four beloved children, together until her passing on August 31, 2002. They were dedicated to their Catholic faith, volunteering weekly from helping unwed mothers to teaching the Rites of Christian Initiation for Adults to new members and sharing their voices in the Ramstein Choir. He later found love again and married his second wife, Inge "Susi" Ursula Molitoris, on June 28, 2004. Susi passed away on May 5, 2019, leaving John with cherished memories of their time together.

John is survived by his loving sisters Elaine (husband Tony), Kay (husband Roger), and Carmen. He leaves behind his children Rocco (wife Laura), Jim (wife Misty), Reuben (wife Patty), Lesa, stepson Peter (wife Evelyn) and stepdaughter Corina. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Chase, Michael, Mikaela, Mackenzie, Alhana, Faith, Madalynn, Yannic, and Nicole.

John never met a stranger and had an insatiable curiosity for travel and meeting new people. His warm and funny personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. John will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

If you wish to make a donation in John's name, please make it to Covenant House in John’s memory.

      You can view a recording of the September 7, 2024 memorial service at the following link - https://youtu.be/bijQSVrXvI8?si=A3SFe-xRwaY6d3_d There are chapters in the video description that allow you to view particular parts like the Military Honors and the Eulogies. I would encourage you to view Jim's if nothing else - he gives a wonderful loving picture of John.

      One more link to share - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7J9vCuYa1MHjIeDEf6zeVl?si=lJDT9UTzQQ-OH31i4fTrlw&pi=pKneu2oLS5Sje

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