Kent R. Welch

     Kent Welch, age 72, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri. He was born on January 16, 1953, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Lewis and Doris Welch.

     Kent graduated from East High School in Des Moines in 1971. On September 19, 1982, he was united in marriage to Marjorie Welch, who preceded him in death on July 30, 2025. Kent and Marjorie moved to the Ozarks in 2012 after his retiring from a distinguished career of 39 years in Des Moines, Iowa at Mid-American Energy as a Gas Serviceman and in Memphis, Tennessee as a Fraud Investigator for Memphis Light, Gas and Water.

     A devoted man of faith, Kent was an active and cherished member of his parish at St. Francis of Assisi in Nixa. He contributed his time as a teacher and was deeply involved in the church's hospitality. Outside of his service to the church, Kent enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including reading, gardening, bird watching, and sharing meals with his family and friends.

     Kent will be remembered for his incredible knowledge and his gift of being able to provide thoughtful and careful responses. He offered insight and clarity to any question asked of him.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Doris; his beloved wife, Marjorie; and his son, Donald. He is survived by his children; Kelly Winders of Des Moines, Iowa, Kirk (Jill) Winders of Des Moines, Iowa, Susan (Terry) Williams of Melrose, Iowa, Beth (Isaac) Hunsberger of Colfax, Iowa, and Kristin (Brian) Schroeder of Colfax, Iowa; fifteen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and a host of other loving relatives and dear friends who will miss him greatly. He lived a life of integrity, faithfulness, and service to others.

A Memorial Mass will be held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, November 15, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Nixa, Missouri with the Very Rev. Shoby M. Chettiyath officiating. Inurnment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery of Springfield, Missouri at a later date.