Robert A. Welsh
Dec 25, 1943 - Jan 19, 2025
Robert A. Welsh, age 81 of Chesterton, IN, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 25, 1943 in Patterson, NJ to Harvey and Mary Ruth (Caughlin) Welsh, both of whom preceded him in death.
On June 29, 1968, at Porter United Methodist Church, he married the love of his life, Lynn (Hokanson) Welsh, who survives in Chesterton, IN.
He is also survived by his loving children: Susan Welsh of Chicago, IL, Kathryn (Erik) Ahrendt of Valparaiso, IN, and Sharon Welsh of Chesterton, IN; his four treasured grandchildren: Daniel Ahrendt (Olivia Hoover Rosario), Jillian Ahrendt, David Welsh McGrogan, and Alaina Welsh McGrogan; his sisters, Donna Owens and Nancy (Scott) Pillifant; his nieces, Cynthia Owens and Miranda (Stephen) Hunt; sister-in-law, Carol Hokanson (late Rick); and nephews, Gregory (Katie) Hokanson and Mark (Katie) Hokanson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son-in-law, James McGrogan.
Bob was a long-time member of the Chesterton United Methodist Church, and served for many years in leadership roles with the Duneland YMCA. He will forever be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and active community member.
Bob enjoyed a distinguished career as an attorney in private practice for over 55 years. He tried numerous cases in both state and federal courts, and won his last jury trial in 2024, shortly before retiring. He particularly enjoyed the intellectual challenges of his work and the ability to help someone in their time of need.
He had a wide variety of interests, including vintage cars, woodworking, Civil War history and Abraham Lincoln, lilies, exotic orchids, snorkeling, trains, downhill skiing, oil paintings, and baked goods (he never met a cookie, piece of pie, or brownie he didn't like). Bob was also a state championship racquetball player. He was a voracious reader and seemed to have a book on almost every subject. Bob loved visiting with people and was known for his sense of humor and storytelling abilities.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:30 am at Chesterton United Methodist Church, 434 S. 2nd Street, Chesterton, IN with Pastor Esta Rosario officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 am until the time of service. A private family burial will be held at Chesterton Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be given to the Annual Support Campaign at the Duneland Family YMCA, 215 Roosevelt Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 or to the Chesterton United Methodist Church, 434 S. 2nd Street, Chesterton, IN 46304.
Professional arrangements are entrusted to White-Love Funeral Home, Chesterton, IN. Please share your wonderful memories with the family at:
www.whitelovefuneralhome.com.
Published by The Times on Jan. 25, 2025.