Louis John Belle II

February 23, 1947 - April 18, 2020

Louis John Belle II, age 73 years, of Raritan Township, NJ, died peacefully at home on Saturday, April 18, 2020, with his loving wife Amy by his side, and under the caring watch of Hunterdon Hospice.

Born in Oak Park, IL, February 23, 1947, son of Dr. Louis John Belle and Roena Graham Helms Belle, John had lived in Raritan Township since 1988, having been raised in Elizabeth, NJ and having formerly resided in Mansfield Township, NJ.

Graduating with a degree in Civil Engineering from Newark College of Engineering, John was a Professional Engineer licensed in many states. He was formerly President of Kinsey Associates, Hackettstown, NJ, where he was a renowned recreational facility designer. He would later go on to join his wife in her company, Amy S. Greene Environmental Consultants, Inc., as a supervising engineer specializing in ecological restoration as well as recreational facility design.

Extremely ethical and passionate in his professional life, all of the accolades and awards from that piece of his life pale in comparison to the joy he found in his family. A little over twenty-seven years ago, Amy. S. Greene was attending a professional conference where she spotted John in a booth he was running regarding public park design. The two struck up a conversation and the conversation rapidly turned from park design to one of the deepest and most profound connections either of them had ever experienced; they had each found their soulmate. On May 15, 1994 they would marry at the Hunterdon County Arboretum.

The next twenty-five years would be filled with what Amy and John described as “the ride of their lives” and that is not just because John and Amy loved to ride motorcycles!

The two did everything together. Their passions aligned and they taught each other about the individual loves they each had prior to meeting each other. From car racing to the environment, and from historical tours to watching movies, they truly had a rich and eclectic life based on the love of each other and of their family.

Their children and grandchildren were the light of John’s life. Being a Pop-Pop was the best title he ever earned, and he proudly put it before P.E.

Very philanthropic, John was involved in many activities. He was one of the founders of the “Ride for the River” put on by the South Branch Watershed Association, an organization in which he held many offices and of which he was a longtime member. He also served for many years on the Raritan Township Planning Board, the Hunterdon Land Trust, the Townsende Homeowners Association Board, and was Past President of the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group, Chapter 2003, Lebanon, NJ.

British Engineer John Fowler once wrote, “Engineers … are not mere technicians and should not approve or lend their name to any project that does not promise to be beneficent to man and the advancement of civilization.” John’s works in the field of civil engineering, as well as his works as a husband, father, grandfather and friend, surely were of benefit to many, and by following his leadership, this world will truly be a better place. Rest easy, John… you have given us the skills to navigate the bright and beautiful path you helped create and we are all better off because you were, and always will be, a part of this world.

Surviving are his wife, Amy. S. Greene; his children and their spouses, Lara Greene Lustig and Daniel Judson, and Joseph Lustig and Dr. Lindsey Mansueto; his grandchildren, Abraham Judson, Hannah Lustig Judson, Benjamin Lustig Judson, Max Mansueto Lustig, and Mia Grace Lustig; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Jo Anne and Matt Yamaka and Jeannette and Gary Robinson; his brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Jerry Greene and Burt and Marlene Greene; several extended family members; and many dear friends.

A public life celebration service is being planned at a later date under the care and direction of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Flemington, NJ. Please check back on this page for updated service information; again, the information will not be available until the restrictions are lifted.

Graveside services officiated by Certified Celebrant D.J. Wright will take place on Friday, April 24, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. in Rosemont Cemetery, Rosemont, NJ under the care and direction of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 38 State Highway 31, Flemington, NJ. Please note: due to current gathering restrictions, only the immediate family may physically attend the graveside. No other person will be permitted on the cemetery grounds or the adjacent grounds. There will be a live zoom meeting beginning shortly before 1:00 p.m. enabling the countless members of the community who want to attend, to be with the family virtually (see link below).

John’s entire family are grateful for the tremendous outpouring of love and support as well as your understanding of the current situation. Please click HERE to generate an e-mail to the funeral home, with a letter or any words you wish to be read at the graveside. Please include your name, relationship and complete contact information.

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PLEASE LOG IN PRIOR TO 1:00 P.M. TO CHEK YOUR CONNECTION; THE MEETING WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PEOPLE TO SIGN ON AT 12:30 P.M. BUT WILL NOT FORMALLY BEGIN UNTIL 1:00 P.M.

Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Graveside Life Celebration Service of Louis John Belle II
Time: Apr 24, 2020 12:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

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***Due to the inability to have a public ceremony at this time, and knowing how vital the love of family, friends, and the community is when someone passes, everyone reading this is encouraged to leave a detailed note on this page—perhaps a favorite story, or maybe the way John touched your heart—something to help inspire a measure of comfort and hope to all who read the comments.***

Please visit John’s permanent memorial site at www.wrightfamily.com to light a memorial candle, leave messages of condolence, share words of comfort and recollection, and post photographs of her life.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor John’s passions for helping others, donations in his name may be made to the following:

1. Eastern PA Ride for Kids to support the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation: Donations may be mailed to Eastern PA Ride for Kids, P.O. Box 593, Granby, CT 06035 (please write IMRG Chapter 2003 in the memo line) or online by clicking HERE

2.The Nature Conservancy, NJ Chapter by clicking HERE.

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Wright & Ford, your local, family owned & operated “Life Celebration Home”

Louis John Belle II, age 73 years, of Raritan Township, NJ, died peacefully at home on Saturday, April 18, 2020, with his loving wife Amy by his side, and under the caring watch of Hunterdon Hospice. Born in Oak Park, IL, February 23, 1947, son of Dr. Louis John Belle and Roena Graham Helms Belle,Continue Reading

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John Belle from his loving wife Amy Greene John Belle was the love of my life. He will always be my honey. Early in our relationship John revealed to me that he was a passionate person. That hidden beneath his confident and cool exterior lay a passionate heart. I have learned over the year’s what he was trying to tell me. He was passionate in his love for me, unwavering and committed. He was passionate in his love for our family and our friends. He was passionate about music, rock and roll, the blues and even country music. He was passionate about protecting the earth. No one recycled more thoroughly than he! John and I did everything together We shared each other’s passions. I taught him about the natural world. He taught me about cars and motorcycles. I even learned even about recreation facility design and engineering ethics and he even reluctantly learned wetland regulations! He got pretty adept at bird ID as well as tree ID. We even honeymooned in Cape May during the NJ Audubon Birding weekend! When you got one of us you got us both - a package deal. Whether it was spending time with the grandkids and family or volunteering for our favorite causes. We invented and ran the Ride for the River Watershed Association fundraiser for 14 years, fought development behind our house, performed stream cleanups and tree plantings, supported the Nature Conservancy, Hunterdon Land Trust and the Ride for Kids, and fostered his passion for the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group of which he is the President. We performed environmental critiques of proposed development projects. We helped preserve open space. He was a maverick on the township planning board. Holding applicants to following the requirements and doing good design and inspiring the other members to also use a critical eye in their reviews. He had no tolerance for fools or substandard work. We worked together as well. In his roles as President of Kinsey Associates and later as Supervising Engineer for Amy Greene Environmental. I was proud of his park projects and he dove in with both feet in our wetland and stream restoration projects. We did not wait to enjoy life. We enjoyed visiting and revisiting our favorite places. We vacationed in Cape May, visited the Berkshires where we enjoyed Lyme Rock Park race track and attended the Rolex 24 hours at Daytona each year. We loved visiting with family and visited with my Mom then later Joe Lindsey and later Mia in Florida. We loved visiting Asheville and Lara and Dan’s family. We took our motorcycles to our favorite places and enjoyed biking the rural roads of New Jersey and beyond. We made the annual pilgrimage to the Helms’s family reunion and farm in Bolar Virginia. The most beautiful place on earth. We so enjoyed bringing the families together at the farm in recent years Joe and Lara and their families and Jun and Gary too! He especially loved spending time with our grandkids. He was and always will be their Pop Pop. We made it to Florida for Mia’s birth and to Asheville for Hannah and Ben’s births. Max made it easy being born here in Flemington! We bought a condo in Asheville and made regular visits to watch Lara and Dan’s kids grow up. We were so lucky to have Joe and Lindsey and Mia come live with us in New jersey in the big house on the hill. Waking every morning to Mia’s smiling face. We started a tradition of Jamaica vacations with the whole family. Lara Dan Abe Hannah Ben Joe Lindsey Max and Mia. We had hoped to take one more trip there this January but it was not to be. While I’ve composed this in my head many times. it is so hard to write it all down and say it out loud. That means he really is gone. But John will be in my heart forever.
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I was very sorry to hear of John's illness and subsequent passing. I always looked forward to seeing John and Amy at the Builders' Conference in Atlantic City every year. My booth was next to Amy's and across from John before he joined Amy;s firm.My best memory of John was his booth display or lack thereof. His handouts consisted of a few pamphlets advertising his services. He didn't feel the need to overcrowd his desk with company propaganda. After a few years it struck me that he was so well known, well liked and respected he didn't need to advertise! Amy, I wish you all the best as you go through the grieving period. John was a great person and I regret not knowing him better. Luv Rich

Working with John in past years on Monmouth County Park System projects, was refreshing, enlightening, and always a pleasure. The world was a better place with him in it. His broad knowledge of design, engineering, and life in general will be missed, as will his humor and kindness. Rest in peace John. You will be missed.

156 OLD CLINTON ROAD

Bender Memorial Academy Class of 1961. John is on the top row, 2nd in just above me on the next step down.
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Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Amy - you and John have a beautiful loving family. He was smart and considerate and dedicated to the Board of Trustees, it was a pleasure and honor to get to know and work with John. Stay well, I believe your love and loving family will continue to support you. please do not hesitate to call any time if there is something you need. Val Robitzski

Amy, Joe, and Laura, Lindsey, Dan and all the grand children, please know you are all in our thoughts during this difficult time. John was such a warm, friendly, outgoing person. The kind you were always happy to see and talk with. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him!

Amy and family, My heart is thick with sadness as we grieve the loss of John. My memories of him will not fade as he made a permanent mark on my life. I truly loved working with him on Ride for the River. We bonded over doing tasks precisely, in order and in advance of when they needed to be done. His generosity and love for the watershed was unmatched. He taught me that you can be passionate and strong all at the same time. John is riding free now and for that I am happy.
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Dear Amy and Family, I was deeply saddened to learn of John's passing. When I first met him almost twenty years ago, I had no idea the impact he would have on my life and career over time. Working with John was the best opportunity I’ve ever had to learn how to really get things designed and built the right way. Early in my career, John always shared not only the “hows” but more importantly the “whys” in how to approach a project, and always had a kind word, a great sense of humor, and a good piece of advice at the ready when needed (whether you wanted to hear it or not, John was usually right on the mark!). I am privileged to have learned from one of the best and grateful to have known him. May you take solace in your memories of a man who had such a positive impact on all around him.

Knowing John is in a better place brings some solace ! My heart is heavy, but knowing John the last few years has been one wonderful and tremendous experience. I have been a very lucky person to be able to call him a friend, and how important it was to our homeowners board and myself, having John as a member of our board. John has been like a brother to me, therefore I would like to say, "REST IN PEACE BRO!" Darlene and Ira M Arden

Amy, Heartfelt condolences to you and family. Met John when I was on Planning Board in 2008. Township reached out frequently to John and Amy in areas of planning, recreation and conservation. John was always available to support the community for the good and welfare of our residents. His dedication, knowledge and contributions were exemplary. He was a wonderful man. I am in FL and Dr Elbert informed me of his passings. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. God bless John! Tom Antosiewicz

Amy and family- Thinking of you all in this difficult time.

Met John back in grammar school, Bender Memorial Academy and joined him on the train to Jersey City to St. Peter's Prep and with fun times at McSorley's Old Ale House. However, when you and John were together it was magical. Thanks for including us in your life. Attached (hopefully) is the "wedding song" you let us sing together. Love, Tom & Pat
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Amy - it is with deep sorrow upon hearing of John's passing. It seems like it was just yesterday that we broke bread in celebration of St Patrick's Day last year under much better circumstances. John and I first met as Pennsy commuting students in 1961 as we began our high school education at St Peter's Prep in Jersey City - many, many wonderful years ago. I will always remember John as a quiet, caring, loving individual who cherished relationships. Peace be with you. Greg & Connie Meehan

My deepest sympathies to Amy and your family on the passing of John. He was a wonderful, kind man and I truly admired and respected him. He was a wonderful engineer and I am grateful I got to know him and will never forget his kindness towards me over the years. Prayers for you all during this difficult time.

Over our 20 years of inn keeping, we have met many people, but only a few became cherished friends. John and Amy are two of them. We are so very saddened Amy, for your loss and for your family's. We really looked forward to your stays with us in the Berkshires, and the rumble of your bikes heralding your arrival in our driveway, always made us smile. We knew that we would have a great time whenever we were with you, and we did! John bestowed the very best hugs!! Such a kind, happy man. The love that you two shared shone from you so brightly - it was clear that you were smitten with each other. So genuine and sweet. John was a wonderful, intelligent man and we had the best conversations - on any topic. We will miss him forever more and our hearts are heavy for you Amy. May the road rise up to meet you John, until we meet again. We love you.
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I am so sorry for the loss. John was a great engineer and a wonderful person. My condolences to Amy and Johns family.

216 Burd Street

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

216 Burd Street

We will always remember john. what wonderful times he had with with you, Amy. I looked at the facebook page also, I love the bike rally pic the the brothers, sister, and John. -susie and jerry

Linda and Ralph Tesauro Little did I know that 25 years ago when my husband and I moved to Green Hills Drive in Flemington, we would have the greatest neighbors in the world who lived next door, John and Amy. John was a wonderful raconteur, brilliant engineer, artist, lover of fast cars and fast bikes, adoring grandfather, loyal friend, and, of course, a devoted husband to Amy. They were “joined at the hip” as we always used to joke and did everything together – a marriage for two soulmates who were meant for each other. Ralph and I will miss John very much and always remember his spirit and energy.

John was a gracious and kind man. You always knew you would get a big”kiss” when he greeted you. We shared grandchildren and many happy family times. He was a fabulous pop-pop to Mia and Max, and they adored him. His struggle this last year was heroic, and Amy was steadfast in her support and love.Johns love for his family was evident in everything he did, it will not be the same without him,his struggle is over and Ben and I will miss him.

Amy, Alice and I were so sad to learn about John's passing. In my dealings with John, I found that he had the talent and skill to see every detail, and the wisdom to see the entire picture. The world is a better place thanks to people like John and you. Harry

Dear Amy, Joe, Lara and family, we were deeply saddened to learn of John’s passing. He waged a courageous battle and is finally at peace. Sending all of you our sincerest condolences and hoping that cherished memories help ease your sorrow and provide strength during this difficult time.

Amy, my thoughts have often been with you and your family this past year. John will be greatly missed for his generous personality and thoughtful advice but also for the passion he brought to the things for which he cared most. His zest for life was evident from the first time I met him about 13 years ago. I was waiting for the engineer to meet me at a stream restoration site at Rockabye Meadow Park, and John arrived in a leather jacket on his motorcycle. It is how I will always think of him. I am so sorry for your loss.

Amy, We're so sorry to learn of John's passing. Wishing you peace and comfort. May he Rest in Paradise. Diane and David Bier

Dear Amy, Lara, Joe and Lindsey, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. So much for you to go through again. Eric alerted me to Lara's post on his page. Connections. Our love and thoughts are with you all. Penny and Bill Althoff

In memory of Louis John Belle II, Jarrod Greene lit a candle

Amy, Joe, Lara and family - So sorry for your loss. John was great guy. So kind, intelligent, and always a pleasure to work with and be around. I deeply admired how courageous he remained over this past year. Thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to celebrating John's life with you in the future. Harry Strano

Peace and prayers to Amy and all of John's friends and family. John lived with compassion and commitment and will be missed by many, particularly in the halls of Amy Greene Environmental. May fond memories of John replace grief in due time.

I met Amy & John when they were newlyweds. 26 years later, they still radiated not only love for one another, but friendship, admiration, and respect. John was an enthusiastic member of our ASGECI family; always ready with a willing smile, a generous spirit, and the best collection of socks. Ride free, John. With sympathy to Amy, Joe, & family - your loss is shared by many hearts.
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Amy and family, my deepest condolences at this time. The family photo is lovely and really captures your combined sense of unity as well as vitality. I will always remember John's sense of humor and fighting spirit.

What I will always remember about John is the smile and wink he gave each time he passed my desk... never to walk by without that smile, wink and a hello. He was a bright presence in our office and if you happened to be next to him at the coffee machine, you could bring up a topic (no matter how small) and he would engage in a full discussion with you in a way that you just knew he sincerely cared and was listening. If there had ever been a best dressed contest, John would have won! Right down to the socks he wore which also spoke volumes of his personality. His presence has and will be missed at the office but I will always remember in my mind's eye, that wink and smile.

Amy, with my deepest condolences to you and the entire family, I light this candle in John's memory. Allison

Dear Amy and Family, We are so very sorry to hear of John's passing and offer our sincerest condolences. You and your family will be remembered in our thoughts and prayers. The Miller Family

In memory of Louis John Belle II, Katie Smith lit a candle

Every thought of you and Amy is a blessing in every moment. Thank you for being not only our riding chapter President that I aspire to emulate in my daily friendships, but for gracing us with us with your love at our wedding, and with friendship beyond. You’re forever in our hearts, will be with us on every ride, and Amy’s forever in our circle of love. ~She & Bones
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Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

John left a very special mark on anyone that had the privilege to meet him. For me, I will always remember his positive attitude, his smile, and especially his love for his family. It was so obvious how much he loved Amy. I could always see how proud he was of her and all her accomplishments. I'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with "one of the best engineers," and by far the nicest! I learned so much from John on pond restorations and stream bank stabilization. Thank you, John, for sharing your wisdom and for all the good laughs along the way. My deepest sympathies to Amy, Joe, Lindsey, Mia, Max, Lara, Dan, Ben, Hannah, and the rest of the family. I will continue to pray for comfort and peace during this most difficult time.

Forever in our hearts. Rest in peace, John.

Lighting this candle for you John, so you will continue to shine and spread your light. Thank you for your kindness, smile and warmth. You are cherished!

Amy, Joe, Lara and family: I am so deeply saddened for your loss. John was truly one of the finest people I have been fortunate to know. His smile and greetings to me daily truly made my work day better and he will be greatly missed. Sean and I are sending all our love to you and yours and we will continue to hold you all close to our hearts during this difficult time.

In moments of saddest our hearts open to thoughts of love for the person we are going to miss. We fill the heart with the memories, the smiles, the hugs and oh yes the stories he told. I have lost my BROTHER and gained a SISTER. Betty and I continue pray for you Amy and with thoughts of love.

Amy and family. Words can't express what a kind and excellent human being John was. He was my customer and friend. I will miss him terribly.

I am saddened to hear of Johns passing. I knew him from the board in which we both served on at one time in our townhome community. John was so sweet to me and was a brilliant man. I pray for peace for his family and for him.. May the Lord hold you close..?♥️?

Amy - I am so sorry to read of your husband's passing. I pray for that time will bring peace and warmth.

He lived his life fully and will be missed by many. Our heartfelt condolences to all the family.

It is a precious gift to be in a family that values unconditional love and shares life’s milestones. We will miss John terribly. I hope we can all be consoled by fond memories and by knowing he is at peace.

Dear Amy and family, I am sorry for your loose and will keep you all in my prayers. Sal Randazzese

It was a pleasure to cut John’s hair. He was always happy and he enjoyed talking about his wife and family. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family. Sincerely Lesli.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.