Rich Belair ... had passion for cooking

BERWICK - On July 26, 2021, Rich died unexpectedly. He was born on August 14, 1973 in Portsmouth, NH. Rich grew up in Berwick and graduated from Noble High School in 1991. After high school, he showed a passion for cooking, which carried him through his adult life. Rich said he always viewed each cooking experience as a great learning experience. This included restaurants in Arizona, Maine and New Hampshire.

Besides cooking he enjoyed music, playing his guitar, riding his motorcycle and reading; especially his Star Trek Books, as well as anything by David Baldacci. Rich also enjoyed hunting and fishing, starting at an early age with his dad and brother. He then shared this passion with his son Dylan. His love for music is obvious in his daughter Delia. Rich loved bantering with his daughter Alyssa, and in return she loved calling him "Chard."

Even though Rich had a passion for cooking, his greatest passion in life was family. He loved spending time with them, and having dinners together where he could show off his amazing cooking skills. Anyone who had the pleasure of having his meals will never forget how great they were. Some of you may have been able to experience some of these delights when he and his brother Tom owned and operated Stokewoods Diner.

Rich is survived by his mother Patricia (Veno) Belair. His wife of 21 years Angel (Matthews) Belair. Children; daughter Alyssa and her partner Zachary Campbell; son Dylan and his partner Mia Knorr; daughter Delia and Zeiydon and Zainder. Also leaving behind a granddaughter Carter Mackenzie with another grandchild due in January! His brother Thomas (Tommy) Belair; nephew Kristopher Belair who he spent a lot of time with and niece Amber Phillips. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is predeceased by his father, Richard Belair Sr, both sets of grandparents Roland and Delia Veno and Leo and Dianne Belair. His uncles Ernest Veno and Robert Belair as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.