My name is Jim Beltz. My friends call me “Big Poppa.” I will be forever 19 years old. I liked to live life to the fullest. I always entertained everyone! I did skits from “party boy,” played pranks, told great stories, anything to keep everyone, young or old, laughing. I wanted everyone to enjoy life. I also had a quiet side and was a very good listener. I liked to hang out with my friends that I had since childhood. We liked to play soccer, track, football, basketball and swimming. I studied and became a journeyman working as an electrician.
I wanted to become an organ donor when my 8-year-old niece became sick with the flu. Instead of the normal symptoms, it attacked her liver. She is still receiving care. I also saved my nephew, who was 4 years old at the time, from drowning.
While riding my “babe magnet,” I was killed two blocks from my house when someone turned right in front of me. I was able to donate my heart valves, corneas, vessels, bone and tissues. I feel better knowing I am able to help someone in their time of need.
You were the life in our lives. Thank you Jimmy Beltz for reaching out to us and teaching us how to enjoy life.
We love and miss you!
Your devoted family and friends