Harry Beliunas, Sr., 89, of Burlington, passed away at his residence on Oct. 20, 2021.
Harry was born in McKees Rocks, Pa., to Wesley John and Grace Lillian (nee Campbell) Beliunas. He attended grade school and junior high school in the McKees Rocks area. He received his high school education and diploma through the Army and GED program.
Harry proudly served in the United States Army for 25 years, serving in the Korean War in the 25th Infantry and two tours of duty in Vietnam, the first with being with the 1st Cavalry (Airmobile). He served under then Lt. Col. Hal G. Moore in the Battle of Ia Drang Valley in 1965. They were part of the first group in Vietnam to land U.S. helicopters there. This was later put in book form and made into a movie. For his military service, he was awarded three purple hearts and a bronze star.
Harry retired from active duty in February of 1980. He was employed as a detention officer with the Monterey City Police Department in California for seven years. He relocated to the Raymond area in February 1988. In 1989, he met his lovely and caring wife, Janis and they married in 1991. In his free time, he was an avid outdoorsman where he enjoyed deer hunting and fishing.
Harry is survived by his wife of 30 years, Janis, brother Bernard, ten grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren 6 great great-grandchildren, daughter Debra Upham of Dover, Tenn.; five sons, Harry Jr., Fred, Norman, William, and Richard; step-children, Wendy, Scott, Mitch and Philip; and four step-grandchildren.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Grace; two brothers, Charles and Wesley Jr.; sister, Gloria; and Janis’ parents.
Visitation will be held at Miller-Reesman Funeral Home on Friday, Oct. 29, 2021 from 1 until 4 p.m. Funeral services and full military honors will follow at 4 p.m. Burial will take place at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall are appreciated:
Vietnam Combat Veterans Ltd., P.O. Box 715, White Pine, MI 49971.
Online condolences may be left at www.miller-reesman.com.
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