Gregory Kenneth Belanger

Gregory Belanger passed away on November 9 after a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer with his three children by his side. While his passing came far too soon, we take comfort in knowing he lived his 75 years with purpose, curiosity, and an incredible sense of adventure.

Greg was born in Duluth, Minnesota, the son of Mildred (Milly) Kallerud Belanger and Kenneth Louis Belanger. The Belanger family eventually settled in California, first in Gustine and later in Milpitas, where he grew up as part of a lively household with his five brothers—Kerry, Kristopher, Leif, Lorin, and Eric. There was never a shortage of mischief, noise, or good stories.

He attended Ayer High School and went on to San Jose State, later earning his MBA from Santa Clara University. He was preceded in death by his junior-high sweetheart, Susan Haywood Belanger—our beloved mom. Together they built a family and life over 50 years of marriage. Greg is survived by his three children—Laurie Armino, Melissa Moore, and Geoffrey Belanger—and by the three grandchildren he adored: Giovanni Armino, Sebastien Belanger, and Madeline Belanger.

Professionally, Greg had a long and accomplished career in banking, where he was known for building strong teams and mentoring colleagues throughout his many years in the industry. We love that he found purpose and satisfaction in developing teams and helping others succeed. Retirement never quite suited him; he preferred to stay engaged, working and contributing right up until his passing.

But the heart of who our Dad was lives in his love of adventure. With his young family, he spent several years overseas in the Philippines and Indonesia, which set the stage for a lifetime of family adventures. He embraced life in Tahoe and Kauai and was always planning the next hike or story-worthy escapade. Whether he was summiting Half Dome, hiking Mt. Whitney or the Kalalau Trail, ocean kayaking, or cliff jumping at Shipwreck Beach on his 71st birthday, he approached life with lofty goals in mind and a blend of boldness and thrill seeking—and kept us on our toes while doing it.

In his later years, Dad fully embraced the Spirit of Aloha. Kauai became one of his happiest places, and the Shaka became his signature greeting and parting message. If you knew him, you almost certainly received a Shaka 🤙—a small symbol of the warmth, friendship, and easygoing kindness he shared so freely.

We will miss him deeply, but we know his stories and his adventurous spirit will continue to guide us. And we’ll always think of him—hand up, fingers outstretched—sending us one last Shaka.

With big love for our Dad - Laurie, Melissa, and Geoffrey