Clifford Belch passes away

The City of Belleville lost one of its best friends on Friday as Cliff Belch passed away after an illness.

He was 87.

Cliff “Sonny” Belch was a lifelong city resident and long time employee, first in the Recreation Department where he would become director. Belch would then oversee the entire operation of the city as Chief Administrative Officer. Following his retirement, Belch served two terms as a city councillor.

Cliff Belch was also active on the local and provincial softball scene. He was inducted into the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 after four decades as a volunteer locally as a coach, manager and umpire and with the Provincial Association that included time as President and Treasurer of the O.A.S.A.

In 1979 Cliff Belch received the prestigious “Mr. Softball Award” and the Ontario Volunteer Service Award. He was then inducted into the Ontario Amateur Softball Hall of Fame in 2017.

Belleville’s current Chief Administrative Officer Rod Bovay spoke to Quinte News about the passing of Cliff Belch.

“I was saddened to hear of Cliff’s passing. He was the City’s first CAO after a switch from the city manager system. Cliff was the CAO when I started with the city in 1988. He was a warm friendly gentleman who made everyone feel welcome. A true class act.”

Cliff is survived by his wife of 64 years, Peggy.

Funeral arrangements to be announced.