James Belehar

James Michael Belehar (Jim) passed away after a brief illness on Friday, June 9th, 2023, at his home on Everett Lake, with his family by his side.

Jim was born to Joseph and Rose Belehar on December 24th, 1950, in Ely. He attended Ely Memorial High School and graduated in 1969. After graduating, he enlisted in the Army and served two tours in Vietnam. Upon his return, he ended up enrolling in vocational school in Staples for mechanics. He also attended Vermilion Community College. Jim worked a variety of jobs  throughout his life (mining, carpentry, bartending, some unknown and maybe not entirely legal enterprises), but his most recent endeavor was “Jim’s Hardwood Floors,” leading him to sand and refinish many floors in the Ely area.

Jim was an active member of VFW Post 2717, serving as commander at one point. He felt a special duty and privilege to be a member of the Honor Guard.

Jim was known for his bawdy sense of humor, infectious laugh, his generous nature, and his extensive vocabulary (most of which is unfit to print).

He is survived by his wife and partner of 20 years, Mary Pat O’Halloran, sons Jeramie (Sandy Thrasher) of Arizona, and Shane (Bailey) of Ely, stepson Tom of Oregon; granddaughter Chelsea, grandsons Brennan and Everett; and brother Joel (Kathy) of Hibbing. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Amanda.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 16th, at Semers Park Pavilion from 2-7(ish) p.m. Light refreshments will be provided, please bring a story to tell (the more colorful the better).

 Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.

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