James Belmonte, 51, Rapid City, and formerly of Vero Beach, FL, died Wednesday, February 20, 2013 in Rapid City, SD.

James Joseph Belmonte, was born October 10, 1961, at Hempstead, NY to Anthony and Sandra (Templeton) Belmonte.

He grew up in the Stuart, Florida area and attended local area schools.

James married Elaine Miles on July 7, 1981 in Milwaukee, WI.

James made his living in the construction field but his true passion was creating beautiful pieces of one of a kind art.

James was an amazing man; a great father and a special person to anyone who had the distinct honor and pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his four children; Angela R. Belmonte, Lantana, FL, James M. Belmonte, Simi Valley, CA, Cody J. Belmonte, Sturgis, Mia Wells, Rapid City; grandchildren, Michael Medio, and Gianna Belmonte; sisters, Donna Sleasman, Georgia Taje, Christie Gerner, all of Sebastian, FL; many nieces, nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Tony Belmonte.

A memorial has been established to a substance abuse awareness center of the donors choice.

I knew a man. he was a kind man, he was a talented man, he was a loving man, he was a lost man. His talent was big. his heart was bigger only to be crushed by the pain of his existence. He was lost. searching he knew not what for. searching evermore. Not a fighter but a lover a dad..a brother living in a world only he knew. he tried to share it too deep to his demise we offered guidance we tried to save him he is gone be still and know. your search is over. rest now. we will remember.

His name. Jim, Daddy, Artist and Creative Engineer.