Robert E. WELCH

WELCH, Robert E. Jr. Age 77, formerly of East Taunton, died peacefully, Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the home of his son, surrounded by his family.

Bob was born in Boston, to the late Robert, Sr. "Bubba" and Mary V. (Riley) Welch. Raised and educated in Quincy, he was a 1966 graduate of Quincy High School. He earned his Bachelors degree from UMASS Boston. He lived in East Taunton for seven years, previously in Bridgewater for ten years, and earlier in Hanson for 25 years.

Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served four, years stationed at Travis AFB, CA. Upon returning home, he worked at Purity Supreme, while enlisting in the Massachusetts Army National Guard. Ultimately Bob spent 32 years in the military, rising through the ranks to become a helicopter (Huey) pilot. Bob achieved the rank of Brigadier General in his service to the country. His passion for this country and those who serve was evident as he donated to countless veteran associations and charities.

Throughout his life he coached numerous Hanson Youth Baseball and WHK hockey teams. Spending almost 12 years as the president of WHK, his passion for youth sports and coaching was evident in everything he did. When he wasn't coaching, Bob loved everything aviation related. Attending countless air shows, owning his own plane and flying around New England, Bob loved flying. As an avid traveler, Bob visited 32 countries throughout his life. Most of his trips were with the Ancient and Honorable Artillery company of Massachusetts, the oldest military organization in the western hemisphere. Bob was truly devoted to AHAC, ultimately serving as Captain Commanding within the organization; a position held by both his uncle, John Riley, and his brother, John. Bob took great pride in AHAC, their mission and their service to Massachusetts and the United States.

Bob married the late Janet (Lauria) Welch, in September of 1972. Married for 48 years, Bob and Janet raised three sons and had seven grandchildren whom he adored.

Devoted father to Kevin P. Welch and his wife. Erin of Klamath Falls, OR, Sean M. Welch and his wife, Jamie of Berkley, MA and Jeffrey C. Welch and his wife, Susie of Rochester, MA. Loving grandfather to Riley, Owen, Harlin, Keira, Finley, Luccia and Norah. One of four siblings, he was the older brother to the late John Welch, Ann "Nancy" Welch of Abington and Virginia "Ginnie" Arienti and her late husband, Charlie of Hanover and their sons, Ken of Dedham and Tim of Weymouth; and Francis Wong of Quincy, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to the Amedisys Foundation (www.amedisys.com). They are such wonderful people.

Visiting Hours will be held on Thursday, November 20, from 10:00AM-12:00PM, at Chapman Funerals & Cremations, WAREHAM, 2599 Cranberry Hwy. (Rt. 28). A funeral home Service will begin at 12:00PM, with Burial to immediately follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.

For directions or to leave a message of condolence, please visit:

www.chapmanfuneral.com