Edward Belin

Edward "Tex" Belin of Masontown, PA, passed away on Wednesday, August 6, surrounded by his loving wife of 52 years, Martha, his family, and his special friend, Mary Swaney. He was the last surviving relative of his family.

Born on June 25, 1930, in Verona, PA, to Paul and Mary (Yugovich) Belin, Edward was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary and Ruth Drozdowski, and his special nephew, Frankie Drozdowski.

Tex developed a passion for music at a young age, receiving his first Gene Autry guitar and mastering the rhythm guitar, bass guitar, and his beautiful voice. His musical journey began in 1947 with Happy Andy and the Log Cabin Gang, continuing until 1952. His career was briefly interrupted when he was drafted to serve in the Korean War from 1952 to 1954. During his time in the Army, he was stationed in Korea for two years and then spent six years in the reserves. While stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky, he attended armored school, where he honed his mechanical skills, working on overseas tanks.
After the war, Tex resumed his music career, performing with Vy Johnson and the Tigeroos, Homer Gross & the Country Squires (WSPL Monroeville), and the Sand Sisters until 1972. He also worked with Cowboy Phil Reed (WHGB), the Belmarts, and Howard Vokes & the Country Boys on several occasions over a span of 50 years.

Tex and Martha’s faith grew throughout their lives together, and they became dedicated Christians. They played praise and worship music with the “Praise the Living God” prayer group in Uniontown for seven years. They later performed at senior homes, churches, benefits, and even radio stations throughout Pittsburgh, Ohio, and Fayette County from 1985 to 2016, until health issues slowed them down.

Tex spent 52 years in Masontown, PA, after being transferred from West Penn Power in Springdale, PA, to West Penn in Greene County, where he worked for nearly 19 years and retired in 1992. In his earlier years, he worked at gas stations, pumping gas and performing mechanic work, often working long hours for little pay. He also worked as a certified auto parts specialist for 13 years and was an excellent mechanic, known for his skill in small engine repair, including lawn mowers. Tex was a true handyman, never needing help until he turned 89 years old.

Tex was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, with a deep love for his family. He was a kind and generous man, always willing to help others in need. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Martha; his daughter, Grace; two granddaughters, Samantha (Randy) and Madison; and his great-granddaughter, Mia. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many other extended family members.

Tex's family would like to extend special thanks to Ruth and Tony Fowler, Mary Swaney, Patty Wheeler, Judy and Randy Byers, and the 365 Hospice team of Monroeville, especially nurses Mary and Lisa, and Star, CNA.