James L.E. Welch

James L.E. Welch obituary

James L.E. Welch

James Welch Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Carman Funeral Home - Brown City on Nov. 10, 2025.

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James L.E. Welch age 47 of Peck died unexpectedly on Nov. 6, 2025. He was born in Yale, Michigan to James and Jesusita "Suzie" (Garcia) Welch. He graduated from Peck High School Class of 1996. He attended Saint Clair Community College and received his Associates Degree in 1998. James married his high school sweetheart, Shane Johnston on Sept. 22, 2001. James worked at Saint Clair County Community College for 25 years and most recently worked for Peck Community Schools as the Athletic Director and Behavioral Specialist.

James was a devoted husband to Shane and a proud and loving father to their son Grady. There are no words to capture the kind of man he truly was – strong in spirit, faithful in heart, and so full of life. He was kind, witty, full of integrity and had a love for jokes and making people laugh. Whether he was spending time with his family, sitting in a deer stand, coaching on the field, or sharing a laugh and smile that could light up a room, he lived every day with purpose, love and joy. He had a huge heart, always giving more than he took, leading by example, and encouraging others to be a better person. James was a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a friend and mentor and had a profound impact on all of those who knew him. He was a shoe enthusiast, an avid baseball card, knife and gun collector and also enjoyed going out to find new places to eat.

James is survived by his wife Shane, his son Grady, his mother Suzie, his sisters Justine Maynard, Judy Welch and Jennifer (Paul) Diepenbruck, his father and mother-in-law Dennis and Cindy Johnston, his brother in laws Shawn (Jessica) Johnston, Stefen (Danielle) Johnston, his sister in laws Shannon Kita and Shasta (Henry) Johnston-Buiting and many beloved nieces, nephews cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son Gaige J. Welch, his father James R. Welch his great uncle Leo Welch and his brother-in-law Derek T. Kita.

Visitation with service following will take place on Wednesday November 12, 2025 at the Peck Community School Gymnasium. Visitation will start at 11:00 am with the service taking place at 3:00 pm.

Arrangements by Carman Funeral Home

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign James Welch's Guest Book

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November 13, 2025

Stevie Johnston posted to the memorial.

November 12, 2025

Bonnie Thomas (Hinojosa) posted to the memorial.

November 10, 2025

Virginia Ramsey posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Stevie Johnston

November 13, 2025

I am deeply sorry for the loss of Coach Welch. His impact on our lives was truly special, and his guidance, leadership, and kindness will be missed by everyone who had the honor of knowing him. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Coach Welch inspired so many of us, not only as an incredible coach but also as a wonderful person who cared deeply for his team and everyone around him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. May his memory live on in all the lives he touched.

Bonnie Thomas (Hinojosa)

November 12, 2025

Shane, Grady, Aunt Suzie, Justine , Judy and Jennifer. James was such a sweet little boy when I first met him and he grew into a fine young man, Son and Brother, Husband and Dad and a friend to many. My heart goes out to all of you, I will keep you all in my Prayers. God Bless you all today and Always. Love Bonnie

Virginia Ramsey

November 10, 2025

Shane, I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart, thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

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Carman Funeral Home - Brown City

4347 W. Main St., Brown City, MI 48416

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Sign James Welch's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

November 13, 2025

Stevie Johnston posted to the memorial.

November 12, 2025

Bonnie Thomas (Hinojosa) posted to the memorial.

November 10, 2025

Virginia Ramsey posted to the memorial.