Darren Lee Belcher
Darren Lee Belcher, 59, of Mexico, passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved him on Tuesday, February 4, at his residence.
Darren was born on November 22, 1965, in Mexico, to Donald (Deacon) Belcher and Luella Biswell. He was the baby of the family with three older siblings, Doug, Tammy and Donna.
Darren was a 1984 graduate of Mexico High School. Darren idolized his dad, so it was no surprise that after graduation Darren went on to work right beside him in the family well drilling business. Darren was a familiar face among the clients, as he had been helping Deacon since junior high, and enthusiastically took over the family business when Deacon chose to retire. Over the years, Darren became highly regarded for his work ethic and his dedication to his customers, his community, and his trade. He could often be seen around town driving his “Belchers Well Service” truck with his name proudly on the door, or helping out the community with projects that were near and dear to him, such as helping revitalize the United Credit Union Christmas Light Tree. It was these skills that those around him had the opportunity to glean, making themselves a better person. His professional success mirrored his commitment to family, friends, and the values he cherished.
Darren spent over 14 years married to the love of his life, Paula Clarke. After a chance gathering hosted by mutual friends, where Darren met Paula and asked for her phone number, he knew it was forever. The couple made it official on July 10, 2010, showcasing their love in a ceremony surrounded by friends and family. Together, they shared 16 wonderful years of wedded bliss, building a life full of memories with those they loved most. Darren often referred to Paula as “heaven sent” and was deeply devoted to her. No matter how ornery he was, like calling her “shorty” when he wanted to rile her up, there was never a question that she was the light of his life, and he loved her deeply.
Darren had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and cooking, which he shared with Paula. He particularly lived spending deer season with her, calling it their “yearly vacation.” They enjoyed nine days each year in the woods, hosting deer camps and preparing breakfasts for friends and family. In 2023, Darren harvested the biggest buck of his lifetime, a monstrous 18-point buck, which he loved to brag about to anyone and everyone. His favorite holiday was the Fourth of July, during which he showcased his skills as a grill master and pyrotechnician. His firework shows were talked about the entire year by those in attendance, with speculation that he would never be able to outdo it next year, which he always did. No one left Darren’s gathering hungry – his hospitality was unmatched.
Family and friends often joked that Darren never met a stranger. With a gift of gab, Darren was always ready to strike up a conversation with anyone, whether he know them or not, and at any time. He could be in the line at the bank, the gas pumps or even his grandchildren’s sporting events, it didn’t matter, if there was person there, there would be conversation. Bringing people together with his kindness, loyalty, and hard work was his gift. His unwavering devotion to his business and family left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Darren was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Luella Belcher and his in-laws, George and Bertha Clarke. Darren’s memory will be cherished by his loving wife, Paula Belcher; children, Richard Belcher of Mexico, Noah Belcher of Mexico, Dena (Dan) Osdieck of Cottlesville, Max (Samantha) Vinyard of Vacaville, Calif., Jacob (Erin) Vinyard of Mexico; five grandchildren, Andrew, Baron, Christian, Harper, and Maisyn. He is also survived by his older siblings Doug Salmons of Oak Harbor, Wash., Tammy Salmons of Alamogordo, N.M. and Donna Belcher of Mexico.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 14 from 5p.m. to 8p.m. at Arnold Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 15 at 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in East Lawn Memorial Park.
Our family would like to extend a special thank you to Darren’s hospice nurse, Allie Schambach for her kind and caring ways.
Memorial donations in Darren’s memory may be directed to the Audrain Historical Society and Graceland Museum.
