James G. Belch, 77, of Venice , Fla. died Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2013 after a bout with cancer.

He was born Sept. 10, 1935 in Annapolis, Md. After graduation from high school, he entered the military service and was stationed in Manheim, Germany. He served with distinction and honor during the occupational transition of World War II. Upon completion of his military service he graduated in 1960 from Washington College in Chestertown, Md..

He had a long and rewarding career in the field of economic development, then a fledgling profession. He served in all three states and as a certified industrial developer. He helped standardize many of the aspects of the programs that are used today. He was regarded by his peers as a true apolitical “professional’s professional.” He was an officer and member of the American Economic Development Council, the Southern Industrial Development Council and many local, county and city development groups.

Jim was a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.

He is survived by his wife Patricia; two sons, Rogers Bond of Annapolis, Md., and Davis Matthews of Bradenton, Fla.; also three grandchildren, Rowan, Ena and Jenna.

Services: A memorial service will be held in the spring in Annapolis, Md.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alter Guild of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 513 Nassau Street, South, Venice , FL 34285-2816.