Michael Robert Belko was deep beyond his years. He had a thoughtful, empathetic spirit and was known for being the first person to lend a helping hand to young and old. He was a scholar in Chinese and Japanese, held a black belt in karate, and relished discussing global issues. As a student at UC Irvine, Michael served proudly as a member of student government where he could sponsor legislation to help others. A tragic accident ended his life at 20, but it didn't end his ability to help those in need. Michael was a registered donor and his organs went on to save others. His family honors his legacy by volunteering in support of donation.

Michael's Story

Michael Robert Belko was deep beyond his years. He had a thoughtful, empathetic spirit and was known for being the first person to lend a helping hand to young and old. He was a big brother for his sisters, friends, and strangers alike. He also had a great sense of humor and was a master of impersonations. An involved activist, Michael relished discussing global issues and political climates.

Michael was a scholar in language arts - he studied Japanese during the week and Chinese on the weekends. With his blond hair and green eyes, his skill surprised many, whether he was translating for Chinese patients at the free clinic where he volunteered or on school trips to China. Michael savored every travel experience whether it was Bass Lake, Balboa Island, Hawaii, New York, or the Caribbean. And he excelled in the martial arts with a black belt in karate.

Throughout his life, Michael was happy for other people's success and compassionate for the less fortunate. As a UC Irvine student, he became an elected member of student government (ASUCI) where he sponsored legislation to help others. Being a member of ASUCI was one of Michael's greatest joys.

Michael was a blood donor and the first in his family to put the pink dot on his driver's license. He suffered a fatal accident at age 20, and was able to be an organ donor. His entire family now shows the pink dots on their driver's licenses.

Through Michael's inspiration, members of the Belko family are OneLegacy Ambassadors who support donation. Every spring, Team Michael is joined by family and friends at the annual Donate Life Run/Walk.

"One of Michael's favorite quotes from his time on ASUCI was 'You don't need a reason to help people,'" said his mother, Denise Belko. "We try to honor his legacy by following in his footsteps and volunteering for Donate Life and other activities in which he believed in so fervently."