Lydia Marie Belanger, 12, passed away surrounded by her loving family Tuesday, February 7, 2017. She was born July 8, 2004 in Green Bay to Gregory and Jessica (LaFave) Belanger. Right from the start her spunk and strong will got her through many challenges. She thrived with the constant love, attention, cuddles, and a lot of singing from her family. In her early years, her first buddies were the amazing nurses from Homecare Advantage who provided incredible care and unleashed her love of Barney which lasted for years. Lydia, not so willing at first, transitioned into pre-school at Syble Hopp. With the amazing patience of her teacher Laurie, therapists, and staff they helped Lydia adjust to the new world of experiences that would eventually bring her so much happiness. It was here that she learned to communicate yes and no, use a talker and got her first opportunity to ride a bike, which soon became an all time favorite activity. Lydia looked forward to her school bus rides and friendly greetings from the drivers. As she transitioned to the intermediate years, her enjoyment of school grew with the love and support of her teacher Stephanie and Michelle. Lydia greatly enjoyed the attention from her group of amazing therapists who would sing and play to motivate Lydia to work. She grew to be fond of all the adventures school offered, but her absolute favorites were her bowling and swimming. She would practically jump out of her chair in excitement trying to tell us of the fun she had. At home Lydia would dazzle us with her sparkling blues eyes, golden streaked hair and her constant laughter. She was always happy and looking to share her joy. Sounds and music were her loves. She would belly giggle to the moo of a cow, the revving of a motorcycle, and the funny parts to her songs. She had a stubborn spunk that would flash us a glare if we didn't play the right song or start the tears if we were taking too long getting ready for our walks. She was crazy about long car rides especially when her music was blaring. She was showered in love by her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. She greatly adored her big brother and would chat for his attention, and found delight in her little sister who loved to hold her hand. She cherished her snuggles, girl time, and summer days with Mom and was completely enchanted by her Daddy. Daily he serenaded her with songs that somehow always included her name, beauty and greatness. He made the funny sounds that caused her to gleefully shout and she took prideful delight in being Daddy's girl. To be loved by a heart as pure as Lydia's was an amazing gift from God. In her short time with us she has given us a lifetime of joy. Lydia is survived by her parents Greg and Jessica Belanger; brother William; sister Claira; maternal grandparents Evelyn (Duane) Schroeder; paternal grandparents: Tom (Sandy) Belanger and Bonnie (Ralph) Destiche; godparents Nick LaFave, and Tanya LaFave and her loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Lydia was greeted in Heaven by her Grandpa Donnie, and cousin Lily. Family and friends may join us in a Celebration of Life Memorial on Monday, February 13, 2017 from 3 to 6 at Green Bay Community Church- East side Chapel with a closing prayer at 6:00. Please visit www.ryanfh.com to send condolences to Lydia's family. The Belanger family wishes to publicly thank all the nurses and doctors in St. Vincent Hospital PICU for all the love, and true compassion shown to Lydia and her family. A special thank you for your support in being partners in Lydia's care throughout the years to: Dr. Gordon Haugan, Nurses Leanne and Connie and Prevea St.Mary's staff, Dr.Edgar, UW Madison Children's Hospital specialists team, Home Care Advantage, Nurses Julie, Liz, Angie, and Judy, and Nurse Erin and Syble Hopp Staff. Thank-you to all of our family and friends that have provided their prayers and support and are true blessings in our lives. Burst Florist 1235 S. Military Ave Green Bay, WI 54304 920-494-2778