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Denise Welsh Obituary


WELSH, DENISE LYNN
Flint

Age 49, died Sunday, April 22, 2012 at her residence. Memorial Service will take place at 4 p.m. Friday, April 27, 2012 at the Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road. Per Denise's wishes cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Camp-Catch-A-Rainbow (camp for children with cancer) or Genesee County Autism Support Group. Visitation 3:00 p.m. Friday until the time of the service at the funeral home. Denise was born in Flint, Michigan on February 18, 1963, the daughter of Sally and Charles Hutchinson, Bruce and Beverly Hyde and was a resident of the Flint area. Denise was employed by the Genesee Intermediate School District as a Teacher Consultant for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Denise was an amazing, compassionate, gentle spirit mixed with tenacity, quick wit and fierce independence. She never let anything or anyone stand in her way when it came to helping others. Denise's passion was her students, however countless people were touched and enlightened be her immense knowledge and dedication for those on the autism spectrum. The love she had for her work was only surpassed by that for her partner, Betsy, her boys, Lou and Jim and her family with whom she shared her keen sense of humor and love of the arts. She is greatly missed. Surviving are life partner, Betsy A. Curtis; sons, Louis R. King and James L. King; her sons' father, Louis King; parents, Sally (Charles) Hutchinson and Bruce (Beverly) Hyde; brother, Darren Hyde (Barb Hobson); sister, Darcy Gyaltso; step-brothers and step-sisters; aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Your condolences may be shared with the family at
swartzfuneralhomeinc.com



Published by Flint Journal from Apr. 23 to Apr. 26, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
for Denise Welsh

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Denise was one year ahead of me in school,and while I didn't know her well,we both had that of-the-wall sense of humor that drew us together on occasion;She was like a female version of Bob Newhart-a person of few words, but immense depth of character! Humor dry as a bone.
It also needs to be known that her gentle magic infected everybody she touched throughout her whole life,and always seemed to leave a path of beautiful flowers behind her after she'd travel through a field of ragweed and thornbushes,so to speak.
what blissful memories she's left us all with,along with an authentic legacy of goodness!

Mary Gaelick

May 14, 2012

Denise,

Today is Mother's Day. You are thought of, you are loved, you are missed.

Always

May 13, 2012

There are chapters of her younger life that can't go unrecognized;as kids,if i was around for a holiday,family function,etc.,she would eventually seek out the younger kids present and make them the focal point of her attention and affection-almost Christ-like,even then it was her calling,pulling from wisdom and maturity way beyond her young years.Denise always had that silent sixth sense,knowing the right things to say and do and most important,knowing when to say and do nothing and to let god take charge,always a student to knowledge and wisdom herself!.Bless you Sally,Darcy,Darren,Nancy,Bruce,and the infinite clan of mourners.......................from a group of fellow athertonians.

class of '81

May 2, 2012

Bruce & Beverly, Sally & Charles, Betsy and family we are so sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you always. Denise we knew you a very long time ago when you were a little girl. Over the years we lost contact with the family and it looks like we missed out on knowing that wonderful person that you were. God called you to be with him to ease your pain. You will be missed here on earth.

Richard,Irena Vanderkarr & family

May 1, 2012

Denise

You were one of the most caring and compassionate women I know. You were my step mother who moved many rocks away for me...the change in relationships, the coming of a child were all very tough times for me and you were my angel supporting me always. You are the reason I am in special education! I watched your love of ALL children and belief in their learning...you always inspired me....Even though we have not physically spent time together you have stayed in my thoughts and heart for years....I love you and can not wait to see you again one day! Watch over us and smile as we continue your work in the special ed world!

Angela Welsh Lloyd

April 30, 2012

My "Nice Niece Nise"...not only were you my first niece, you were my little sister and friend.I will treasure all that you brought to my life...your smile, your laughter, your love. I will miss you so deeply.My love for you I will carry always.I'll cherish the many laughs we shared along our journey together. Aunt Nancy

Nancy L. McKinstry

April 30, 2012

To loose a friend at such a young age is so hard, but to loose a friend like Denise is one of the hardest things I have done. I haven't seen Denise in a few years, which is shameful. Time gets away from us and we get busy with our everyday lives, and then we are slammed in the heart, and no way to make it right. I grew up with Denise and loved to play outside all day. We were the Belsay Rd trio, Denise, Pam and myself. Even as a kid, she was always a caretaker. She loved taking Darcy with us all over the neighorhood. I have great memories once the Hydes left us and moved from Kearsley to Atherton. We would meet at Sunnymead for weekends of fun. Denise's wit would make your side hurt, now it is our hearts that hurt. We all wish for the one more conversation or one more hug, her family and friends need to gather strength from her and her fight. Love each other, like we ALL loved her.

Tracy Wickham

April 29, 2012

Denise it has been one week since you left us, life has not been the same my friend. Your memorial like you was Beautiful. It reflected your “Dash”, the extraordinary life you lived. Your life was short but full. If only you could have seen the packed house of individuals there just for you. Yes, there were many tears, including mine. Many loved, admired, and respected you. That was proven on Friday when we all gathered to say farewell. The truth is there are so many pieces of you in all of us that you will never be gone completely. We honor you, we honor your life; we honor your name, “Denise Welsh”.

One You Touched

April 29, 2012

Denise will be missed so much by so many. I have learned so much from her and laughed so often. Her friendship was a true blessing to me and I am forever grateful. She will always be with me! Bless you Betsy, Lou and Jim. Much love to you.

Amy

April 28, 2012

The bible states,"you reap what you sow".Denise has sown a million acres to the tenth power of true healing and pure human goodness.Her plantation of progressive and effective good works permeates an infinite spread of acreage,not only in her profession but in her common bond with people and life in general.You've catapulted forth THE new standard of what a role model represents! All the best in the future for Betsy,jimmy,and Louie.

Travis Collier

April 28, 2012

Denise you will be greatly missed, and forever remembered by all who knew you. You touched so many lifes! I was blessed to have met you many many years ago, and have you as a role model. I when I think about you I will always smile and think of all the wonderful times we have shared. Love you " your adopted daughter"

Melissa Penkowski

April 27, 2012

we are sadden to hear about her passing. she was an asset to our child's ieps and other families who has a child on ASD. she will be missed. we are glad we got to meet her and work with her. RIP DENISE. THANK YOU.
the Tannehills (rileigh)

sheli tannehill

April 27, 2012

You were the first light in a very dark time for my family. In this crazy world of Asperger's, you were there to show me and my family the way through it with compassion and education. That was 6 years ago, and you never left me or my son! Your light continues on in the lives that you have touched and the children that you have helped, including mine. I selfishly am not ready to let you go....you are and always will be the Zen Master!! On behalf of my son John, and my family, we love you and thank you for your guidance. You are remembered always...

Kari Baker

April 27, 2012

This is such a tragic loss for all of her students and the families she assisted. She was so young and I know she will be deeply missed. My sympathy goes out to her sons and Betsy.

Sheila Welch

April 27, 2012

So many loved Denise. She had a great sense of humor and a contagious spirit which touched all she came in contact with. She was my co-worker but most importantly my friend. I count it a blessing to have know her. My deepest sympathy to her sons and Betsy. Love you my friend and will miss you dearly.

Beverly Harrison

April 27, 2012

Denise was an awesome lady! We will never forget her! She was always so kind & caring and compassionate too! She also helped our family in our struggle with the special ed. program providing the support our son needed in school and I.E.P meetings! So sad to see we have lost such an angel! Rest in Peace Denise, we will miss you! The Ray Family

Tammy Ray

April 26, 2012

Denise was so kind and loving to our family when my twins were first diagnosed, I will forever be grateful to her for helping us through a very difficult period. A very special person that we were blessed to have as a part of our lives.

Shannon, Erik and Alex Mitchell

April 26, 2012

I am so sorry to here about your loss. I wish I could say something to make it better. I grew up with Denise and she was a nice and caring friend. We love to go out back in the woods.. My heart goes out to Sally, Brue, Darcy and Darren and the rest of the family that I never got to meet.

Pam Sywyk (Navarre)

April 26, 2012

I am so sad that Denise is no longer with us. We all know she was a savior for many families, but she also made the rest of us want to be better just in seeing her compassion and gentle nature when working with kids, families, teachers and co-workers. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and close friends. Please know that she will be missed but always with us in her own way.

Terri

April 26, 2012

We are glad to have the chance to know you what a wounderful woman you were.

Scott and Robin Bourbeau

Scott,Robin Bourbeau

April 26, 2012

You were like the big sister I always wished I had, but even more and better than that, you were -- you. I miss you, I love you, and I appreciate you.

April 26, 2012

You were a true angel whose compassion knew no bounds, always putting others before yourself. You touched countless lives and were such a support for so many!! I have missed and will continue to miss you, your knowledge and support, and your sense of humor that I SO enjoyed (ie. So, do you even try)! ;-)

May God give strength to Lou, Jim and Betsey as they struggle with their grief. May they find comfort in their memories and knowing you are still watching over us all with a smile. RIP now . . . . .

Therese Walters

April 26, 2012

There is only one Denise Welsh and she was a true gift from God. Denise was incredibly smart, compassionate, hard working and selfless. She cared so much about others and touched many, many lives. I am so fortunate to have worked with her and will treasure all the memories. I will miss her smile, sense of humor, her visits, and much more. My thoughts and prayers go to her family and Betsy.

Cherie Wager

April 25, 2012

My condolences to all her loved ones I did not get the chance to know her well but what I did know she was a great person with an awesome personality and I know she will be missed god has made her into one of his beautiful angels RIP

kristi

April 25, 2012

Denise you will be greatly missed! You have touched so many with your love and passion for life. Your sense of humor will never be forgotten. You were certainly one special woman!!!! Xoxox

Stephanie Gay-Strawsburg

April 25, 2012

Denise! There are no words to describe how wonderful she was. I had known Denise for a while, but several years ago she opened herself to me; it was unexpected. It was at a time in my life that I really needed a friend, and she was there. As we really got to know one another we found that we had an unusual amount of things in common. This included the month that we were born. I started calling her my “Soulmate”. She would smile in her special way. I have much Gratitude for Denise. She touched my life in a way like no one else, and she will always have a place in my heart. “D” I will miss you;rest my friend!

A Friend

April 25, 2012

When my dad and your mom got married, our family grew in size. My Aunt Judy used to tell me that you were my twin. We even share the name Denise. Just knowing that you were always there for my dad and your mom was a great comfort to me, whether you were sitting with one of them in a waiting room or bringing them a meal when they were sick. You were always there for them and I wish I had thanked you for that. Losing you so early has been heart wrenching but I am glad to know that you are not suffering any longer. Your smiling face is forever etched in my mind. Rest in peace Denise.

Kim Suntken

April 25, 2012

Denise was not just my friend, she was my big sister. I had fun with her and enjoyed every minute of our friendship. I will always have her with me in my heart, for that is the place she touched the most. Love, Stephanie :)

Stephanie McKeown

April 25, 2012

Denise was a very special person in my life not only as a friend but as a co-worker for over 24 years at GISD. She was the BEST teacher I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She had the biggest heart for children and their families often giving out her personal phone number and answering it late at night just to help them out! She was a great team member to our Early Childhood Program always sharing her knowledge and insightfulness and especially her humor. She loved the fact that I was a MSU grad and she loved U of M and because of our rivalry she alway gave me the best birthday presents usually involving a rivalry "gag" gift that made me smile! It broke my heart when she decided to leave the ECPS program and be an Autism Consultant Teacher for the GISD. Our ECPS program would never be the same and NO TEACHER could ever replace her! She was a blessing from God to me and I look forward to seeing Denise again on the other side. May God give Denise's family and friends comfort knowing his child is now with Him and is finally home. God's blessing be upon you all.

Cindy Miller

April 25, 2012

I didn't know Denise as a teacher,but as a friend. She use to come into the restaurant that I work at, for several years. She had a wonderful sense of humor, and she was very kind.I recently had the pleasure of meeting Betsy,and I want to express my sympathy to you(Betsy) and Denise's children. I am so sorry for your loss. She will certainly be missed. God Bless You~

Joyce Snider

April 24, 2012

To my dearest Aunt Denise, as you can see there is no doubt that you have touched the lives of so many people. You have been such a huge part of my life and I will be eternally grateful for all that you have taught me through out my years. The compassion you had for your work and life will forever be remembered by the memories we share. You always knew how to brighten someone's day whether it be one of your silly sarcastic jokes, or just a simple smile. Its hard to believe and accept that you are gone, but I know that Heaven has gained such a wonderful angel and your journey is just beginning. As I sit here saddened by our loss, I now have relief knowing you now suffer no pain. May you rest in peace for eternity and continue your journey as an angel who I know will always watch over us. I love you with all my heart and thank you from the bottom of my soul for everything you have done/taught me in life....I am beyond blessed to call you my Aunt <3

Brittany Hyde

April 24, 2012

The world has lost a wonderful person, but heaven has gained a angel. Summer at MCIC wont be the same without you. When I think of you I smile and know how lucky I am to have known a person as specil as you. May you RIP.
My thoughts and prays are with your family.
Diane Sparks

April 24, 2012

So sorry to hear of Denise's passing. She touched many lives and helped so many in her short time here. She was one in a million. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.

Judy Atiyeh

April 24, 2012

Aunt Denise, there is a void in my heart that will never be filled....as sad as I am to know that you're not with us anymore, I'm glad that you are not in pain any longer. I'm not quite sure how life will be moving forward...but I know it won't be as fun without you :(. Forever missed </3, Cailey.

Cailey Hyde

April 24, 2012

I'm sad that she is gone. She was a wealth of knowledge and did not mind sharing with me. I will miss her sense of humor and smile around the office. Her presence will definitely be missed here at GISD-North building. My prayers go out to the family and friends of Denise. May God strengthen and comfort you during this untimely passing of a close loved one.

Tammy Gill, GISD-North

Tammy Gill

April 24, 2012

You were your mother's first child, your grandparent's first grandchild, the first niece. We never expected that we would lose you less than a year after Grandma. You were the one to be there when others had needs.
Much has been packed into your forty-nine years. If I remember correctly, you were already taking college classes and working with special education while in high school. You kept up the pace, filling your life with much service and fun. You made so many smiles! Even in your last weeks you thought about others and what you needed to do to help them. You are not passing a baton to one person but putting your team to the test, getting all of us off the bench into the game to take up the slack of what will be missing. We will do our best. Memories of you will be treasured.

Gayle Barlow

April 24, 2012

I will always remember Denise as the Teacher that always smiled no matter what she was up against. She will truly be missed for the impact she made on her students, parents and co-workers. Smiling with the Angels.

Brenda Maynard

April 24, 2012

Dear Family,
Denise will be missed by many. You all are in our prayers.

The Theodore family

April 24, 2012

Denise you were an amazing teacher and person. You have touched the lives of so many. Many that you knew of and many that you had no idea how you have impacted them in a positive way. As a parent with a child with autism..I can say that you were here to help them and their families. You had a gift for patience, love,respect, and understanding that cannot be taught. I am glad you are now at peace but saddened to know you are know longer here with us. You will be greatly missed and adored always.I hope to touch and help lives the way that you did. My condolences and prayers to your family, friends, and loved ones.
Sincerely,
Lisa and Preston Sain

Lisa Sain

April 24, 2012

So sorry to hear of Denise passing. She was working at the center for the severely impaired when I knew her best. She handled her students with geat dedication and humor and was a joy to work with. She will be missed.

Julie Cooper

April 24, 2012

" How do we live without you?"(Trisha Yearwood) "OH DENISE-DENISE we're so in Love with you." Or how about "Up in the morning and off to school. I had a Million of em." What I wouldn't give to be able to sing to you now. My heart is broken . I Love You, Nancy Meyer

Nancy Meyer

April 24, 2012

"How do we live without you ?" (Trisha Yearwood) or OH DENISE - DENISE we're so in Love With You. (Fifties group) or how about "Up in the morning and off to school" I had a Million of em" What I would'nt give to be able to sing to now. "You were my Shining Star." My heart is broken. I'll always remember working at GISD with you. I Love you. Nancy Meyer

Nancy Meyer

April 24, 2012

Jimmy and Louie,

We all saddened to hear of your Mom's passing. She fought hard and always remember the good times that you had with your Mom. You boys meant the world to her and she raised two beautiful and special sons. Know that she will always be with you in spirit and her love will always be with you. I know that Anthony will never forget her lovely smile and the times that all of you guys would hang out at your house and Anthony will always cherish that last time that you all watched the Tigers on TV just a few weeks ago.

Mary DiPonio

April 24, 2012

Denise was such a talented, caring, and wonderful teacher, friend, and colleague. At this time, I prefer to think of her great sense of humor, sparkling eyes, and engaging smile...rest in peace Denise

Jan Russell

April 24, 2012

Denise was truly dedicated to her students. I will always admire her courage and strength during her illness. She will be missed by many.

Theresa Kelly

April 24, 2012

"Denise will be greatly missed by many. She was an amazing, inspirational person."

Bethea Scovic

April 24, 2012

I am so saddened by the loss of Denise, may God be with you all at this difficult time. Denis and Miss Nancy were my son Andrew's first teachers at GISD and she was his teacher consultant later at Rankin, she helped us navigate the sometimes scary waters of autism with a smile on her face, a hug and hope. May you rest the arms of angels, as you were truly one here on earth.

Tammy Collins

April 24, 2012

Denise valued her privacy, so I'll only mention two photos I saw that really seemed to capture her: 1) Denise in Toronto, sitting with arms on knees, wearing yellow sneakers with black bees on them, looking relaxed and happy. 2) Denise standing with a painter whose work she admired---a photo she mocked because her eyes were so big ("I look like a deer in headlights!"), Denise looking excited and happy. It was always good to see Denise looking happy.
Lou, Jim, Betsy...If you guys need anything, remember we're all out here.

A Friend

April 24, 2012

She was such a caring and wonderful person. She will be truly missed.
Adrienne Hoffmann Buchowski

April 23, 2012

Our hearts go out to you for your loss. Denise was beautiful person that came into our lives at a time when we didn't quite know which end was up. She was our son's teacher from the time he was 2 years old. He remained in her classroom for many years. She was more than a excellent teacher she was our friend. She is the reason our daughter has become a teacher. She spent her life helping/teaching special children and their families. I know she continues her selfless acts in heaven. I am sure she has her arms around all the special children in heaven with her. Her family should be proud knowing what a great person she was and that she left a mark on this world that cannot be erased. RIP to one of the most wonderful people I have ever had the privilege to call my friend.

Debbie Trundle

April 23, 2012

May the good lord be with you and your family always. It was a pleasure to know you.
You have left a lot of people with great memories

Joe Pilara

April 23, 2012

Denise will be missed dearly. She touched so many lives in the school and autism communities. She will always be remembered for her compassion, integrity, wisdom, sense of humor, kindness, and down to earth personality.  I feel blessed that I had the opportunity to work with Denise. She was an amazing individual, very proud mother, and a good friend.

Deanna Robbins

April 23, 2012

Denise, what a wonderful friend. Full of surprise. Joyful. I"ll never forget turning your entire room upside down. Tables,chairs, book shelves,pictures on the wall and everything on your desk. So creative and fun was your payback. So many Monet's.
Love always,

Jeffrey Reno

April 23, 2012

“A reason, a season or a lifetime”… she was on earth for a special reason; to love children with Autism. She lived life for only a short season (Gone Too Soon), but the impact she leaves will last a lifetime. I will miss you Denise. To the family may God Bless, and Comfort you at this time of great loss.

Sheryl McBrayer

April 23, 2012

Denise had a smile that would light up a room and such a wonderful sense of humor. It was a privilege to work with her and call her a friend. My deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones.

Amy Warda

April 23, 2012

I learned so much from Denise. Her knowledge and advocacy was something that i admired greatly. She always made me laugh in meetings, she had a great sense of humor. Her influences will live on forever in the lives of all those that she worked with.

Bob Hetherton

April 23, 2012

Denise, was so good to help with our special child Emma. She was missed when Emma moved on but I remenber her fondly. With deepest sympathy.

Paul Bolt

April 23, 2012

Denise had a gift for bridging the gap between student needs and school realities. She was a wise and gentle soul that students trusted. She will be deeply missed.

Deb Tiller

April 23, 2012

My heart goes out to family and friends. Denise's humor, smile, and love for the children she supported will always be remembered and admired. Thank you, Denise, for your support and friendship.

Susan Cyrul

April 23, 2012

What a pleasure it was to know and work with Denise. I will remember her fondly, as will the many families she touched.

Casey Park

April 23, 2012

she will be missed

richie kaley

April 23, 2012

I am just so sorry for family and friends loss. She was an amazing friend and co-worker. She will be greatly missed.

Deb Hooper

April 23, 2012

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