Don "Pete" Belcher

Don “Pete” Allen Belcher, dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to all, passed away with his loving wife and daughters at his side on October 21, 2022 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Pete’s reputation for lighting up a room, bringing laughter and joy carried him from his school days, beloved by his teachers and friends, through all the days of his life. After a 3 ½ month battle with Pancreatic Cancer, it seems fitting that Pete went to Heaven during a rare moment of laughter as his wife and daughters were telling stories at his bedside; he seemed to be waiting for the laughter to return.

Pete met the love of his life, Kim, at the University of Florida. After marrying at 22 years old and graduating from the UF they began their life in Orlando where they remained to raise their girls, Brandy and Brittany. Pete grew up playing baseball and his love of sports continued as he was always present on the sidelines for Brandy and Brittany’s games growing up. Raising his girls as Gators, taking them to football games became a favorite family tradition, second only to their annual Keys trips. Spending time fishing in the pristine Keys continued as he passed the family tradition to the next generation, sharing his love of the water with his grandchildren, bringing their families together for vacations.

When Pete wasn’t on the water, he was often found on the golf course and tinkering in his woodworking shop. Since his retirement at 57, he built several custom furniture pieces for his daughters and wife and his skills were always in demand. Bass fishing brought Pete peace and stirred his friendly competitive spirit as his favorite way to spend time with his brothers and best friends; he always looked forward to their bi-annual fishing trip.

Pete’s business success included many accomplishments in the tire industry, as he began his career with Michelin Tires, founded his own retread/manufacturing company for large truck tires, which he later sold and completed his career with Bridgestone/Firestone as a large trucking consultant in Kanas City, Missouri, where Kim and Pete remained for twelve years. Work transferred them to Atlanta, Georgia, which brought them closer to their daughters and grandchildren. They loved their friends and life in Atlanta, yet it still wasn’t close enough to Brittany and Brandy. In 2017, Pete and Kim moved to Green Cove Springs, where they quickly formed strong friendships with many who seemed like they had known forever. Days were always fun-filled with golf, cocktail parties, card games, fishing, and laughter, simply enjoying time with each other.

Kim and Pete were always each other’s best friend. Through 46 years of marriage, you would still catch them flirting and Pete sneaking a quick kiss with his “Punks”. Their love for each other and family overflowed and was evident to all. Pete’s greatest legacy will always be his exemplary love for Kim. Pete would often catch Kim’s glance and simply say, “I love you, Punks” so often that we pray Kim still hears Pete whispering these words from Heaven.

Pete is survived by his beloved wife Kim; his daughters, Brandy and her husband, Travis Becker, and Brittany and her husband, Barry Marquart; his grandchildren, Brooklyn Avery, Braedyn Lane, Colton Jax, Taylor Ann, Kaleigh Sage; his older siblings, Mark, Steve and Sue; and his favorite sidekick, Otis, the dog.

Pete’s family is extremely grateful for the outpouring of love and support from all. We will celebrate Pete Belcher’s life on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at 11:00am at Eleven22 | 4459 US Hwy 17, Fleming Island, FL 32003.

Family expresses their appreciation for Community Hospice’s services during Pete Belcher’s final week of life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to: Community Hospice and Palliative Care, Jacksonville, FL | www.communityhospice.com