In Memoriam Anthony Paul “Tony” Alfalla, Sr. (1955~2025) The Empire State Water Well Driller’s Association (ESWWDA) extended their condolences to the family of Anthony Paul “Tony” Alfalla, Sr. who passed away January 31, 2025, in the Waterman Hospital (What are the odds?!) in Tavares, Florida. Tony spent his life building his business and took great pride serving his community. He looked forward to retirement, but his love for helping others won out. He always found ways to have fun with his family and friends, putting smiles on everyone’s face. Tony was an avid golfer, hunter, high school wrestling fan, and coffee drinker. He enjoyed life at the lake and traveling the country. He was an even bigger fan of spending time with his family and being the world’s best Poppop. Big Tone was, and will continue to be, a light. He put everyone above himself and strived to give all he could to his family, friends, and even strangers. Tony is survived by his longtime partner, Karen; children Terry, Julie, and Elizabeth; grandchildren Danny, Lanie, Griff, Hunter, Miles, Maple, and Penny; as well as siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his sons Anthony Jr. and Michael. John M. Findorak, Jr. (1934~2025) ESWWDA is remembering John M. Findorak, Jr., age 90, who filed his last well completion report on December 2, 2024. A lifelong Wilton, Connecticut, resident, John Jr. was born in 1934. Working alongside his father when he was knee-high to a grasshopper, John Jr. knew he wanted to drill water wells. He graduated from Staples High School in 1952, then married his beloved Audrey in 1953. After his father’s sudden passing in 1965, John Jr. became owner-operator of Findorak and Sons, Inc. He continued in the water well drilling trade, having only stepped away from his rig at age 85, still offering expert guidance without hesitation until his passing. John Jr.’s heart was broken with Audrey’s passing in 1993. He is survived by his children John III, Robert, and Lisa (Aaron); grandchildren Joseph, Amanda (Ken), Audrey, Ashley, and Sarah; and two great-granddaughters. Darren Lee Belcher (1965~2025) Darren Lee Belcher, 59, of Mexico, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved him on February 4, 2025, at his residence. Born in 1965, he was the baby of the family with three older siblings. He idolized his dad, so it was no surprise he went to work right beside him in the family well drilling business. Darren was a familiar face among the clients, as he had been helping since junior high, and enthusiastically took over the family business when his dad retired. Over the years, Darren became highly regarded for his work ethic and dedication to his customers, his community, and his trade. He could often be seen around town driving his “Belchers Well Service” truck with his name proudly on the door, or helping out the community with projects near and dear to him, such as revitalizing the United Credit Union Christmas Light Tree. His professional success mirrored his commitment to family, friends, and the values he cherished. After a chance gathering hosted by mutual friends, where Darren met Paula and asked for her phone number, he knew it was forever. They shared 16 wonderful years of wedded bliss, building a life full of memories with those they loved most. Darren often referred to Paula as “heaven sent” and was deeply devoted to her. Darren had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and cooking, which he shared with Paula. He particularly loved spending deer season with her, calling it their “yearly vacation.” His favorite holiday was the Fourth of July, during which he showcased his skills as a grill master and pyrotechnician. His firework shows were talked about the entire year by those in attendance. With a gift of gab, Darren was always ready to strike up a conversation with anyone, whether he knew them or not, and at any time. Bringing people together with his kindness, loyalty, and hard work was his gift. His unwavering devotion to his business and family left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Darren’s memory will be cherished by his loving wife Paula; children Richard, Noah, Dena (Dan), Max (Samantha), and Jacob (Erin); grandchildren Andrew, Baron, Christian, Harper, and Maisyn; as well as siblings Doug, Tammy, and Donna. Lest we forget . . . 28 APRIL 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource®
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