John L. Welch, age 81, of Marion, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, November 5, 2016 at his residence. Known to many affectionately as the Bread Man during the course of his life, he was born September 15, 1935 to the late Riley and Bereta “Birdie” (Robinson) Welch in Delaware, Ohio.
John was a Korean War veteran, and he later retired from a long-time position at Armco Steel. He loved his friends at the American Legion Post 162 and his friends at the Shovel Lounge (his local favorite place to eat). He enjoyed fishing and hunting. He had many friends in Port Clinton, and he never met a stranger.
Most of all, John loved his children and grandchildren. He is survived by one son, John (Ruby) Welch of San Diego, CA; four daughters, Tammy (Frank) Hall of Marion, OH, Twila Utley of Marion, OH, Sandi (Don) Oliver of Marion, OH, and Peggy (Tim Reindl) Polley of Iberia, OH; 12 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
John is survived by one brother, Ronnie Welch of Ironton, OH; three sisters, June (Chuck) Lute of Prospect, OH, Joann (Buster) Wilson of Ironton, OH, and Patricia May of May, KY; and one aunt, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his former wives Lynsey, Joyce (Bright), Kay (Brooker), and Doris (Waterhouse); two grandchildren, Debra and Daniel Layne; one sister, Mary Lou Windle; and one brother, Robert Welch.
John was a member of the Church of Christ, Richland Rd. and Port Clinton.
Per John’s wishes, no calling hours will be observed, though a graveside service with military rights will be held. Burial will take place in Grand Prairie Cemetery on Wednesday, November 16, 2016 at 1 PM with Pastor Matt Dahm officiating. A dinner will follow at American Legion Post 162.
The family would like to express a special thank you to the staff of Marion General Hospital 4 South, Heartland Hospice of Marion, and also to granddaughters Shannon Oliver and Doris Scales and grandson David Scales.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Hospice in Marion, OH. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.boydbornfuneralhome.com.
About Marion Online Obituaries
