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Philip WELCH Obituary

WELCH, Philip A. Aug. 20, 1940 - Aug. 18, 2014. Philip A. Welch passed away peacefully in Trinity, after a long courageous battle with cancer. Phil is the son of the late Jane and Harold T. Welch Jr. He was raised in Columbus, OH by his grandparents, Ruth and Harold T. Welch Sr. He graduated from Columbus North High School and briefly attended The Ohio State University where his love for the Buckeyes began before moving his young family to Michigan embarking on a successful career in sales. Working for Levi Strauss, London Fog and Valeo, Phil's career took him to Chicago, St. Louis, Kansas City, Milwaukee and finally retiring to his favorite city in 2009, Tampa. Through it all, Phil never met a stranger. His warm spirit and ease of conversation allowed him to become friends instantly with anyone. Phil married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Strait, in 1959 and enjoyed a loving 54 year relationship where the two were inseparable. He had three children, Lori (Pete) Redell, Linda (Bob) Rosso and Dan (Jessica) Welch; seven grandchildren, Tony, Jordan, Jack, Tyler, Jake, Luke and Nick. Phil's passions were his family, his love of books and watching sports or a heated political debate program. His weekly phone conversations with his kids and grandchildren will be sorely missed. Each of us felt like we had our very own life coach helping us through the joyous and difficult times. Rest in peace, our loving husband, father and grandfather.

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

Published by Tampa Bay Times on Aug. 24, 2014.

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August 29, 2014

One of the few good guys who we met on our journey through life. A man of true integrity and someone we were blessed to have known over the last 5 years.
Larry & Joyce Giblin

Barbara ODonnell

August 28, 2014

Patty - I don't have to tell you what Phil meant to our family. He helped us in a very critical time in our lives and he will always hold a special place in my heart. I loved watching O'D and Phil work together. No one did it as well as the two of them. You and your family are in my prayers.

Valeo Friends for Life

John Lookabaugh

August 28, 2014

Phil was my first sales manager, but he became so much more. A father figure, a mentor, a life coach, but most of all, a friend. I will miss him greatly, and I will be sure to pass along the life lessons he taught. I love you, Phil.

Cindy and Mike Rudd

August 26, 2014

Mike and I knew Phil for his fun loving ways, always willing to help, and participated in everything the Cove did. Here is a fond memory of his Bocce Ball 2nd place win. We will all miss you!

August 25, 2014

I'm so glad Phil had you all of those years...you two were lucky to have each other. I remember fun times double dating in high school..you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers
Carolyn Courtright

Doug Forde

August 25, 2014

I loved it when Phil and his great pal, OD, had wonderful dinners in Long Beach , CA. Great guy

Debbie DeMatteis

August 25, 2014

One of my favorite memories is when we all came to visit you in Michigan and Grandpa took the boat out and got stranded on Lake Michigan! We sure did have some fun times growing up! My Prayers are with you all.

Barbara Hegler

August 25, 2014

Patty, what a beautiful obituary, a truly loving tribute to your Phil. Take care at this very sad time.

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