Jerry L. Welch

Jerry Welch Obituary

Col. Jerry L. Welch age 73 unexpectedly went home to his Lord and Savior Tuesday, July 27, 2004. Born August 20, 1930 in OKC, raised in Gould, OK by parents Thaylor and Ida Lera Welch. Survived by his wife, Marlene whom he cherished, sharing 52 years of marriage. Three children, Keith Welch and wife Sheila of Tulsa, OK, Linda Jenkins, RN and husband Charles Jenkins of Plano, Texas, and Michelle Decker, D.D.S. and husband Kevin Decker of Okla. City. Seven grandchildren who were everything in his life including one great grandchild soon to be be born. After growing up in a small farming community, he worked full time as a firefighter paying his way through college graduating with a BBA. in Industrial Mgmt from OU in 1952. He gave 28 years to his country serving in the US. Air Force as a proud fighter pilot, base commander of the largest military base in Europe, and so many other proud accomplishments. He was able to enjoy a second retirement after working with the Okla. Tourism Dept. for 12 yrs. As a devoted Christian man he volunteered for many clubs and organizations and was very active in the church. His favorite past time and true passion was playing golf with all his buddies. Dad touched many lives. He was a hero and role model for many, a teacher and a friend to others and inspired everyone he touched all over the world. He is proud of the legacy he has left his family. He will be missed by many and loved by all. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the St. Matthew United Methodist Church in memory of Jerry. Memorial services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, 7/30/2004 at the St Matthew United Methodist Church in Midwest City, OK. Barnes & Johnson Funeral Home 1820 S. Douglas Blvd Midwest City 733-2991

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Published by Oklahoman on Jul. 29, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Welch

7 Entries

LOUISA BRENTS

August 6, 2004

I did not know Jerry well, however the few time we talked I was impressed. He was a very warm and out going person..a real loss to everyone. Marlene, I am here.

John Geron

July 30, 2004

Jerry and I met through our 53 Fox reunions. His warmth and genuine friendliness made it seem we'd known each other many years. I'll remember Jerry's "good ol' boy" view of life. Rest in God's peace and love, gentle friend!

Jim Mayton

July 30, 2004

I wish to express my condolences to the family as a member of Pilot training Class 53-F.

We have lost a "Brother Pilot". Jerry was a real Gentleman and Air Force Pilot. I am proud to have known him and to be a friend and classmate.

Jean & I will miss him at our reunions. Our prayers and thoughts are with all the family.

God Bless!

Jim & Jean Mayton

Prince Geroge Va.

Frank Butcher

July 29, 2004

Jerry Welch was one in a million. I first knew the Welch family when we lived side-by-side with Marlene, Keith and Linda near Scott AFB, Ill in 1968. I didn't meet Jerry until years later, but we came to know each other by talking on tapes the families would exchange while he was in Viet Nam. A year later the roles reversed while I served in Viet Nam, but the family ties continued. We have stayed in touch ever since and shared many happy moments. Jerry will be missed but his contributions will live forever.

Frank Butcher

Donald Condra

July 29, 2004

I would like to express condolences to Jerry's friends and family on behalf of all those who knew him in USAF Pilot Training Class 53-F. I attended training at Greenville and Webb AFB's with him. He an officer and I an Aviation Cadet. For us Cadets, he was our mentor.. a fine example for us to hope to imulate. God bless Jerry and thank God for letting us know and love him.

Karen Schreiber

July 29, 2004

Jerry Welch is a man who made a huge impact on my life. He was my mentor, my friend, and my biggest cheerleader. Through his example and leadership I learned the definition of dedication, respect, and professionalism. At his recommendation I took a job with the Department Of Defense and know I am where I am today because of the lessons I learned from Jerry. He always ended our conversations with "I'm proud of you kid, love you", well Jerry, I am proud to have had the opportunity to know, respect and love you.

Marlene, Rick and I are sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Bud Libengood

July 29, 2004

Jerry will be much missed by those of us who had the pleasure of learning to fly with him. He was always fun to be with at our 53-F reunions. Lore and I will miss him and our prayers and thoughts are with you his family at this time.

Bud and Lore Libengood

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