Jeffrey C. "Jeff" "Merl" Belknap of Concord passed away Saturday evening, Dec. 19, 2015 at the age of 56. He died peacefully at home. Born in St. Johnsbury on May 20, 1959, Jeff loved all sports and coached The Pirates Babe Ruth baseball team. Jeff and Debra operated J.D.'s Restaurant on Portland Street, formerly known as the Surf and Sirloin Restaurant and Wooden Horse. Known affectionately as 'Merl,' he and Debra also operated the Deli at Pettyco Junction. He especially loved to go hunting with his brother Eric and his kids T.J. and Morgan. He is survived by his wife Debra (Wilson) Belknap (PO Box 212 Concord 05824); his parents Paul and Bernie (Harbaugh) Belknap of Waterford, his brother Eric Belknap and wife Felicia of Waterford; aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and Debbie's extended family. A gathering of friends and family will be held at the Sayles Funeral Home this Saturday, Dec. 26, from 2-4 p.m. Jeff had been on dialysis for the last couple years at the Fresenius Center. Contributions, marked the name of 'Jeff Belknap,' could be directed to 'Fresenius Medical Care', 1080 Hospital Dr., St. Johnsbury VT 05819.