John graduated from Central High School in 1960. He served in the US Army (Infantry) from 1960 to 1963. John worked at Emge Meat Packing Company and retired from Deaconess Hospital. He belonged to the Hadi Shrine Arab Patrol for 25 years and loved working at the Fall Festival and the Shrine Circus. John was a member of Abundant Faith Church and later Harwood Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents Rufus and Ruby Welch and brothers, Ruben and Charles Welch.
John is survived by his wife of 44 years, Karen S. Welch; sons, David Welch (Laura), Steve Welch (Karen L.) and Brian Welch (Dolly); grandchildren, Stephanie, Jeffrey, Heather, Megan, Little John, and Rylin; sister, Martha Gray (Bill); sister-in-law, Mary Welch; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at Alexander North Chapel, officiated by Bro. James Gibson and Bro. Karl Crowe, with entombment in Alexander Memorial Park. Friends may visit Monday from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderNorthChapel.com.
