William Mathew “Skip” Belz III
William Mathew “Skip” Belz III, 83, of Grand Lake passed away at MyMichigan Health Center in Alpena May 10, 2025.
Skip was born in Grosse Pointe Farms to William and Genevieve (Shorkey) Belz March 13, 1942.
He owned and operated Belz Marina on Grand Lake for many years.
The following is a biography of Skips naval career. Skip’s official title was, Boatswain Mate First Class William “Skip” Belz, U.S. Navy, (Retired). Skip enlisted in the Navy in 1959. Skip’s first ship, a destroyer, was off shore observing the Bay of Pigs fiasco in 1961. A year later this same ship participated in the Cuban missile blockade. This ship was also involved in several NASA space capsule recoveries. Skip’s second destroyer deployed to Vietnam in 1966. While operating off the coast of Northern Vietnam an Air Force fighter jet was hit by enemy anti aircraft fire. The pilot was able to maneuver his damaged plane to the coast. The pilot ejected and made it into the water off the coast. Skip’s ship could not reach the pilot because the water was too shallow. Skip dove into the water, swam to the belligard pilot and safely returned him to the ship. For just actions, he received the “Navy – Marine Corp life saving medal.” (This is the same medal future president John F. Kennedy received for his actions in World War II). Skip’s second tour of duty in Vietnam he was in command of a navy LCU (landing craft utility). Skip’s mission was to run supplies and troops up the various rivers in Vietnam. During the 1968 Tet offensive Skip ran vital supplies and Marine re-enforcements to the besieged city oh Hue. Skip’s craft was under constant enemy fire and his second in command was killed. After nine years of desk duty Skip was assigned to shore duty at Groton, Ct. While assigned to to this naval base, Skip received a service connected career ending injury. Skip received a medical disability retirement. On November 6, 2021 he married Barbara Missinne – Newhouse. He was a Life mem
Skip is survived by his wife, Barbara; a cousin, James Shorkey and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Kathleen Belz.
The Rev. Karen Zurakowski will conduct his graveside at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery Friday, May 23, at 10 a.m. followed by honors being accorded by the Rogers City VFW Post 607.
Online condolences may be addressed through www.beckfuneralhome.org.
