Thomas Martin Welch, 76, from Perryville, passed away on Sunday, April 9, 2023 just six days after the love of his life, Lila Welch.
He was born August 5, 1946 to Martin and Loretta [nee O’Brien] Welch in St. Louis.
Tom married Lila Henson on May 4, 1996. She passed six days prior to Tom after a courageous battle with cancer.
Tom and Lila loved the outdoors. They traveled as camp hosts throughout National Parks across the country. They enjoyed renaissance fairs and making kettle corn at craft fairs all over. He was also a master woodworker.
He leaves behind a son and two daughters; Gary [Christy] Welch, Tammie [Curtis] Lowes and Mary Ann [Jarrod] Leible. He was a grandfather to Steph [Drew] Richardet, Zach [Matty] Welch, Alex Binner, Chelsi [Montana] Giesler, Kyle Welch, Trevor Hotop, Brooke Lowes, Wyatt Terbrak, Gavin Terbrak, Megan Newland, Cassondra Smith, Mariah O’Donnell, Sarina O’Donnell, Alana Couch and Nathan Couch. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Bristol, Knox and Piper Richardet; Kristopher and Arianna Taylor; Desmond Byers; Madison and Katherine Hodges; and Baby Boy Giesler due to come in a few weeks.
He also leaves behind many numerous family and friends including special friends, John and Tina Fadler.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister; Paul Sutton, Bob Brazell and Judy Brock.
A Celebration of Life Service for Tom and Lila will be on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville from 3-5pm with a service at 5pm. Memorial contributions may be given to Angel Flights or American Cancer Society.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.
