In Loving Memory of
Michael Belston II
August 21, 1980 – January 21, 2025
Virtual Memorial Gathering
February 8, 2025
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A video recording is available below.
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Michael Belston II Obituary
Michael Belston II, a shooting star who brightened our lives, left us on January 21, 2025, at the age of 44. Born in sunny San Diego on August 21, 1980, Michael always had the spirit of adventure in his heart, which guided him through life’s journey. He spent nearly three decades as a travel agent, a career that allowed him to move others even when standing still. It was the job he truly loved.
Michael found a partner in crime and heart in Marc Bourassa, tying the knot on July 14, 2018. Their union was marked by joy and shared dreams—an adventure that Michael cherished deeply. He leaves behind Marc, who will carry forward Michael’s spirit and zest for life.
To those who knew him, Michael was a beacon of positivity. He was there for everyone—day or night—spinning wild tales and captivating stories to capture your heart. His love for Hawaii was profound, claiming it as his true home, and you could feel the warmth of its sun whenever he spoke about it.
Surviving Michael are his beloved husband Marc, chosen family which include loving mother Yoko Hollis, supportive friend Jennifer Hall, sister Debbie Beckford and a host of other family and friends. His incredible bond with his mother, whom he affectionately called Oka San, was like a happy reunion of long-lost souls. That deep connection was meant to be, and it filled both their lives with joy.
Let’s come together to celebrate and remember the life of our dear Michael, who lived and loved with every fiber of his being.
Memorial Donations in memory of Michael may be made on a designated GoFundMe account:
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I never met Mike in person but his charismatic personality made it feel like he was in the room with me when we spoke over the phone. We would talk about the travel industry, but Mike would always make time to share a funny anecdote from his storied past. He had a wealth of knowledge and wisdom, and I treasured his sense of humor and candor. I’m so thankful that i had a chance to get to know him. I will miss speaking with him, and I will pray for you Marc, as you navigate life without him.
With love from the Delta family,
Brian
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The memorial was absolutely beautiful. Our hearts are breaking for Marc and Yoko and all of the other people who loved Mike deeply. He was a very special, love-filled person. He died much too young. The world needs many Mikes. ♥️
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What a wonderful happy joy soul Mike was.
Every time I spoke to him he was upbeat,joking and positive no matter the circumstances.
He will be missed.
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Michael even though we never physically met in person I feel like I knew you through Marc. Marc spoke so kindly and lovingly about you. I know you were a sweet and gentle soul. It warmed my heart that you two found each other in this crazy thing we call life. You will be greatly missed but never ever forgotten.
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Uncle Mike always helped my mother and I with her last-minute trips and was a very solid support for her during hard times. In Singapore, we had the joy of meeting him and shopping with him. He helped Travic find the perfect suit while making us laugh for the few hours that we were together. We will miss you lots Uncle Mike!
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Mike’s passing is still difficult for me to process. Especially since it was not an easy passing for him or for Marc. He was such a good friend. Not just a colleague.
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Je veux souhaiter mes sincères condoléancesà toi Marc et tout la famille. Michael nous avons pas u la chance de ce voir beaucou mais lors de notre première j’ai vue comment tu étais une très bonne personne repose en paix.
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I only knew Mike for a short time but quickly understood what an amazing person he was. I am so glad I had the opportunity to get to know him know him.
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Oh Mike, how I will miss you I can’t even think of it. We became good friends after all the trips you arranged for Harvey and me. You sent us all over the world and always smooth traveling no matter where we were. When I became a widow you would not leave me alone too long. I can still hear your voice “ hey Maria, let’s go to lunch” and we would have the most wonderful time and you would make me laugh and get me out of my sadness. What a wonderful gift you were for me in those dark days. I know that I will think of you and miss you forever.
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Oh Mike, when didn’t you make me laugh? I will miss our life talks but hold your light in my thoughts. I promise to make it to St. Barths one day and walk the beach with you in my heart.
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Dear Michael,
You will be deeply missed.
Thanks for always reaching out, and for not forgetting me when I was going through layoffs and new beginnings. You were always so smart and willing to help so many. May you rest easy my friend.
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I am deeply saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. He was a force of nature with a brilliant mind and quick wit. He worked hard to overcome life’s adversity and stay positive. He was always willing to share his expertise and insight. Mike’s introductions paved the way for my joining Altour. ” Only the good die young”. Gone much too soon. He will be missed.
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Mike, I deeply regret every moment I thought of you but didn’t reach out. Your support and the joy you brought into my life during the most chaotic times meant more than I can ever express. Every interaction with you was empowering, and I will always be grateful for that. You are so deeply missed.
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Michael was my go-to person whenever I needed to travel anywhere!!
When my daughter had a stroke out if state, I called Michael and knew he would take care of all travel arrangements!!! That was so important, and he understood the gravity of the situation..
Whenever we had weddings or vacations Michael was the main man!!! Always pleasant, thoughtful, caring and efficient… Michael was my guy!!! We will definitely miss him!!! Prayers for his loved ones; he will be sorely missed
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Very sorry to hear, you and Michael were so vibrant and kind. I really enjoyed getting to know you both and Debbie too while you moved here. I will never forget your offer to come hangout when I was sitting outside an open house! You two were so much fun. Condolences, -Nathaniel.
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Mike…. I am in shock, this can’t be true?
You called me just before Xmas, you left me a message that I will always keep, just checking in you said, like you always did!
When you didn’t hear from me in a while you would always reach out, I knew when Mike called I would be on the phone laughing and joking for the next hour, then at the end of the call we would talk about my next adventure for 5 mins before hanging up with OK, talk soon!
My condolences to Marc, & Oka San who I never met, but felt like I knew.
My biggest regret… not returning your call, bless you Mike, you will always be remembered fondly xx
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Mes plus sincères condoléances bon courage Marc
Aurevoir Michael
Lise et nicole
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When Mom and I came to work with Mike, we instantly adored him and his sweet Belle. It didn’t take long before Mike became family. He had a huge heart, cared deeply for people, and kept us laughing every day. He was a big part of our lives, will be deeply missed, and will remain in my heart.
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Mike, intelligent, hard working and a wonderful person I met at my American Express office in Miramar, FL.. . My father was a friend of Don Ho and I had many albums which I offered to Mike which he was excited to have.. I also saw him at my friend Annie’s travel agency where he left Amex to work there. Mike , you will be always remembered and never forgotten.
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Mike, intelligent, hard working and a wonderful person I met at my American Express office in Miramar, FL.. . My father was a friend of Don Ho and I had many albums which I offered to Mike which he was excited to have.! I also saw him at my friend Annie’s travel agency where he left Amex to work there. Mike , you will be always remembered and never forgotten.
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An EXTRAORDINARY guy who goes out his way to help. A guy who makes you laugh when you have a lousy day. A guy who checks up on you when you MIA for awhile. I miss you Mike. I still cannot process the fact you left us way too young.
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Mike, my brother from another mother. He had the biggest heart and was one of the kindest people I’ve ever known. He wanted everyone to laugh no matter what. If you got to know him, you became a friend. Mike will be truly missed, and mere words cannot express how much he meant to me, to us.
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Mike – my adopted nephew-
A joy and bright spot in the world-
His laughter and wonderful sense of humor are always around !!!
Martin and I loved him dearly