Francis Joseph Belmonte, Jr. was called home to be with our heavenly Father on October 10, 2024, at the age of 93, after a long journey with Alzheimer's. Frank was born on September 30, 1931, in Denver, Colorado, to Francis Joseph Belmonte, Sr. and Angelina Massaro Belmonte.

Frank was a dedicated and hard-working individual from a young age, attending Regis High School in Denver while holding various jobs, including a position at Walgreens. He enjoyed square dancing and earned numerous ribbons for his participation in competitions.

It was at Walgreens that Frank met Evelyn Meis, who would become his beloved wife. Though initially not smitten by his charm, Frank's perseverance won her over, and they married on August 4, 1951. Together, they raised five children.

In 1954, Frank proudly joined the U.S. Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant. His illustrious career in Tactical Air Command (TAC) took him around the globe. He was part of the F-101 Testing Program in Texas and served as a navigator in C-130s during the Vietnam War. During one mission, his plane encountered mechanical difficulties, forcing an emergency landing behind enemy lines. By the grace of God, he and his crew were rescued by the Green Berets. Frank retired after 24 years of dedicated service as a highly decorated Lieutenant Colonel, often stating, "Freedom is not free; it is earned."

After his military career, Frank worked as an electrical engineer at McGaw Industries and also founded his own consulting company, PB & Associates, which he cherished.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn, and their daughter, Linda (Koreis). He is survived by his four remaining children: Sharon White (David), Cynthia Belmonte, Frank Belmonte III, and Angela Chargualaf (Jeff), along with son-in-law Phil Koreis. He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Anthony Koreis, Topher Koreis (Tina), Brandon Chargualaf, and Matthew Chargualaf; granddaughters: Alison Koreis, Courtney Chargualaf, and Mary White; and great-grandchildren Gavin Koreis. Quiahanna Hendrix (Trevor), Jazymn Burt, Kalanni Burt and great-great grandchildren Graham Hendrix, Elaine Hendrix.

Frank will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to family, and commitment to serving his country. He touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed.

Rosary and visitation will be on Friday, November 8, 2024, at McCormick & Son mortuary in Laguna Hills.  A funeral mass and celebration of life will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Irvine. Burial will be at Ascension Cemetery immediately following mass.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Vitas Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to Frank during his final months. A special acknowledgment goes to the nurses who supported both Frank and his children during this difficult time as he began his journey home to God.