Brian K. Belcher
Mystic — LCDR Brian K. Belcher, USN (Retired) entered eternal life Sept. 25, 2024, in Mystic, after an extended illness. He was 63 years old.
Born in Texas City, Texas, Brian was the eldest son of Ed and Ann Belcher (deceased). Excelling in academics, swimming, and music, he graduated at the top of his class and was offered a full scholarship to MIT or a Congressional Appointment to the Naval Academy. Choosing the latter, he graduated with the Class of ‘83. Despite his many opportunities, Brian remained loyal to his love of music, participating in the Men’s Glee Club and the Drum and Bugle Corps.
Affectionately known as “Belch,” Brian formed lasting bonds with his fellow midshipmen. Though he was known for never studying, he loved learning, as evidenced by his vast collection of textbooks, known fondly as “The Belcher Memorial Library.” After graduating with a degree in Marine Engineering, Brian joined the Nuclear Submarine Force. While awaiting orders, he met Patricia, a Navy Nurse, at a small church in Pacific Beach, San Diego. They reconnected after Brian completed his training in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and married nine months later. Both were stationed in San Diego early in their careers. It was not long before they gave birth to their first born child, a daughter Elizabeth. Then came their son Jason, followed by a third child, daughter Rebecca.
Brian’s Naval career took him from coast to coast, including an extended tour in Washington, D.C., a shore tour at NPTU Ballston Spa, N.Y., and a final assignment at Naval Submarine Base New London, where he completed 20 years of service.
Following his retirement, Brian pursued his dream of becoming a high school physics teacher. He attended ARC, earning certifications in Tech Ed and Science. After developing curriculum and teaching, Brian returned to engineering at Electric Boat until his health began to decline.
Brian was known for his quick wit, gentle spirit, and lifelong love of music. A gifted guitarist, he could often be found playing at family gatherings or around a campfire. Music was his second language. He was also a devoted family man, and his grandchildren affectionately called him Pop Pop or Poppy. Brian eagerly embraced challenges, from coaching his son’s soccer teams (despite never playing himself) to leading the Ledyard Boy’s Freshman Team for a season.
Camping was another love he shared with his family. Even when his children were just one and two years old, he purchased a pop-up tent camper, creating lasting family memories. Brian’s passion for classic rock, along with his guitar in hand, became his signature. His enthusiasm for music extended to driving a full station wagon of his son’s high school friends to Dave Matthews Band concerts in the summer.
Brian was a dedicated fan of baseball, rooting for teams that changed with his various postings in life, from the Houston Astros to the Baltimore Orioles to the Boston Red Sox. He was also proud of his 31 years of sobriety, actively participating in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Celebrate Recovery. Special thanks to his Thursday night AA group who supported and loved him throughout the last two years of his illness.
A man of deep faith and love for his family, Brian is survived by his wife of 39 years, Patricia (Schulz); daughters, Elizabeth (Lu) and Rebecca Ostermann (Jonathan); son Jason (Luci); six grandchildren; father (Ed); sister Shari Smith; and brothers, Mark and Eric. He will be deeply missed by his family, especially his children and grandchildren.
Per his wishes, Brian will be buried at sea, with a Celebration of Life for immediate family during Veterans Weekend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or your local library.