Jerome Michael Welch

KEENAN, WELCH

Posted By: Cindy (email)
Date: 12/19/2022 at 13:09:28

Jerry M. Welch, 74, of Winthrop, Iowa, went to his heavenly home on November 25, 2022, at ABCM Rehabilitation Center in Independence after long-term complications from a car accident.

Jerome Michael Welch was born on May 22, 1948, in Independence, Iowa, the son of Charles John & Mary Burnita (Keenan) Welch. He grew up in Spokane, Washington. Jerry graduated from Gonzaga Prep School. He furthered his education at Eastern University and obtained his master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Washington.

Jerry went on to work with children in several places, including Seattle Children’s Home and Juneau Youth Services. His passion for children affected the lives of many. Jerry also had soft spots for Alaska, dogs, his cat Squirt and gardening, but, above all, his brothers Pat and Bill, who he helped on the family farm.

Friends describe Jerry as a compassionate, joyful, patient, positive mentor, who was always willing to lend a listening ear. Jerry will be remembered physically for his impressive beard, bear hugs and his Hawaiian shirts.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, aunt and uncle and many cherished friends.

Survivors include his brothers Bill and Pat Welch, neighbor Pat Decker, God son Brixdon Mulford, friends Jill Mulford and family all of Winthrop and Meredith and Dan Rhoads of Center Point.

Prayer Service: 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at the Fawcett-Schmitz Funeral Home in Winthrop.

Visitation: 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. Thursday at the funeral home.

Interment will immediately follow at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery, Winthrop, Iowa.

Memorials may be directed to Juneau Youth Services. 2075 Jordan Ave in Juneau, Alaska 99801.

Online obituary at www.jamisonschmitzfuneralhome.com