Byron Belden, 70, died Sunday morning February 1, 2015 at his home in Oelwein after a valiant fight with cancer.

Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday February 6, 2015 at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Saturday February 7, 2015 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 940 Rock Island Ave (Hwy. 150 S), in Oelwein.

Byron Dale Belden was born January 5, 1945 in rural Elkader to Randall and Nadine (Bissell) Belden. He attended school at Mederville, Littleport, and Arlington graduating in 1963. Byron was united in marriage to Joyce Olson on December 25, 1967 at St. John Lutheran Church in Arlington. Byron and Joyce farmed at Volga for two years, moved to Arlington where he was employed by Seedorf Oil, later Fauser Oil until 2008 when he retired.  Byron then worked part-time for Tournier Recycling in Independence.

Byron was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1972. He enjoyed the meetings and Bible study, as well as having many “spiritual” brothers and sisters. Byron also enjoyed spending time with his family, and loved spending time in the timber.

He is survived by his wife Joyce, sons Brett (Beth), and Jason, both of Oelwein, a granddaughter, Brielle, a step-granddaughter Courtney Silvestri and step-grandson D.J. Silvestri, a brother, Doug (Lois) of Swisher, sisters Marna (Jim) Wehr of Cedar Rapids, Cheryl Handel of Lamont, Paula (Steve) Clancy of Knoxville, Tennessee, and many nieces and nephews.

Byron was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Neal (Tiny), Rick, and two sisters, Kay and Christi.