Elmer Belt

Elmer A. Belt, age 90, of Independence, Kansas died Monday, February 7, 2011 at his home in Independence, Kansas. Celebration of Life Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 11, 2011 at the Potts Chapel in Independence, Kansas with the Reverend Terry Hatfield of the First Christian Church officiating. Burial will follow in the Mount Hope Cemetery under the direction of the Potts Chapel in Independence, Kansas. Visitation hours will be held from 8:00 a.m., to 5:00 p.m., Thursday, February 10, 2011 at the Potts Chapel in Independence, Kansas. The family has suggested memorials to the First Christian Church and contributions may be left at the Potts Chapel in Independence, Kansas. Elmer was born December 2, 1920 in Hale, Kansas Chautauqua County to Archie and Ethel Coffey Belt. Elmer grew up in Chautauqua County and received his education from the Peru School System.On September 2, 1942 Elmer entered the United States Air Force and served during World War II in the Pacific theater. He was hospitalized with malaria in the Philippines when the War ended in 1945. Elmer was honorable discharged on January 4, 1946. On December 11, 1951 Elmer married Helen Goodwin the couple made their home in Independence, Kansas. In 1946 Elmer started Belts furniture store on west main street in Independence, Kansas and operated that store with his wife until his retirement in 1980. Elmer was a member of the First Christian Church, American Legion Post 139 for more than 60 years and a Life Member of the VFW Post 1186. Survivors include his wife Helen of the home one brother Orman Belt of Independence, Kansas, eight loving nieces and nephews, and a number of grand nieces and nephews.