Gerald W. "Jerry" Belcher

Gerald W. Belcher, 59, of Middletown and formerly Portland, beloved husband to Rose (Johnson) Belcher, died Saturday (July 6, 2013) after an almost two decade battle. He was born in Stafford Springs, CT, son of the late Earl and Alice (Kihl) Belcher.
Affectionately known to all as Jerry, he was a long time auto body mechanic. During the late 70s and 80s he was the auto body manager for both Wiltsie Chevrolet in East Hampton and then Wiltsie Chrysler Plymouth in Portland. During the 1990s he was the owner and operator of the Portland Carriage Shop, a popular auto body repair shop in Portland that during its peak had a three month waiting list. His talent was undeniable until he could no longer work due to his health.
He was a very kind and loving man always helping the community in any way he could. He would purchase turkey dinners at Thanksgiving for those families less fortunate. He also worked with Portland High School with their Experience Based Career Education program helping many kids find a purpose and direction.
Besides his wife, Jerry is survived by his son Jeremy Belcher of Middletown; his daughter Sarah Ruel of East Hampton; sister Sharon McNamara and her husband, Rich of East Dorsett, VT; brother Chuck Belcher and his wife, Susan of Bennington, VT; two beloved grandchildren, Alexandra and Logan Ruel; from his second marriage step-daughter, Dawn (Merrill) Chaney and her family; step-son , Rick Merrill and his family; and step-daughter, Maggie Merrill; he is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Those who wish may send contributions to the American Stroke Association c/o American Heart Association P.O. Box 417005 Boston, MA. 02241-7005. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.portlandmemorialfh.net