Photo supplied.
Tim Belch passed away suddenly at his home on the family farm on October 3, 2023. Tim grew up on the family farm on Sherbrooke St. helping with the family bison business. He left home to earn degrees in Journalism, English and Education. The farm remained top of mind and he used the name “Buffalo Bill” in his personal email.
The draw of life on the farm eventually pulled him back and he returned to the farm to help his father manage the herd. Once farm operations slowed down, Tim became active in local politics and served as a Councillor in Cavan Monaghan Township for 12 years. He had an eclectic love of music and was an avid sports fan, cheering for the Montreal Canadiens, the Blue Jays and NFL football.
Former Cavan Monaghan Mayor Scott McFadden served alongside Tim during his twelve years of service on Council and he remembers Tim as an outspoken advocate for his ward, never hesitating to confront the tough issues on behalf of his constituents. During his tenure as the Council representative on the Millbrook BIA, the village saw unprecedented investments in downtown Millbrook with new infrastructure and a complete revitalization. Tim was also instrumental in the redevelopment of the soccer fields at Maple Leaf Park, expanding the opportunities for youth to become actively involved in the local soccer program.
McFadden remembers Councillor Belch as a true visionary in recognizing the importance of a new Community Centre in Cavan Monaghan, from the facilities planning and concept design through to the ribbon cutting ceremonies in mid-2019. In his final year on Council, Councillor Belch put his support behind the new Parks & Recreation Yard in Millbrook, the new Public Works Operation Centre and the new Fire Hall with an EMS base.
Councillor Belch’s passionate commitment to public service will be dearly missed by the residents of Cavan Monaghan, current and past Councils, and the staff of Cavan Monaghan Township. His lasting legacies as a Councillor of Cavan Monaghan Township will be evident in the Township for generations to come. KG
