Michael Albert Belknap

Michael A. Belknap passed away Sunday, July 21, 2024, after a brief unexpected illness. He died peacefully and was surrounded by his family. Mike’s 43-year career at General Dynamics started as a tradesman, and with continued education and promotions held positions as Production Supervisor, Design Build Rep and retired as Principal Manufacturing Rep. Mike retired as a distinguished ship builder and subject matter expert in submarine hull construction. A well, respected leader and mentor to many. His legacy will carry on through the people he worked with and trained. Post retirement, Mike continued to give back to the submarine community working with APCO, a Swiss owned company, as a part time instructor.

Born in Providence, Mike was the son of the late Albert and Rosemary (Blane) Belknap. He and his wife Deborah were happily married for 42 years. He is also survived by his son and daughter in law, Nathan and Keeley Card, grandchildren Marley, Isabella and Mya Card. His brother and wife, James and Diane Belknap. His niece and husband Allison and Greg Abilheira, niece Jacqueline Belknap, his great nephews Aidan and Grayson Abilheira, sister in laws Susan Kilgore and Katherine DeMello, and his cousin Chris Blane.

His first love was his wife, and his second love was Block Island. Spending as much time on the island as he could fishing, boating, hiking, and sitting on the back porch at Paynes Harborview Inn was a true highlight for him. In his spare time, he loved spending time in his workshop, woodworking, fixing and building anything that improved things around the house. There was nothing he could not fix or make better. Most importantly he was a huge family man, spending time with family and his grandchildren gave him the most joy! He will be missed every day by all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, 11 am - 12 pm, followed by a funeral service at 12 pm in the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Block Island Land Trust, P.O. Box 220, New Shoreham, RI 02807 or the Block Island Historical Society, P.O. Box 79, New Shoreham, RI 02807.