Mike Welsh

Mike Welsh, a lifelong resident of Polk County, Florida passed away on Saturday, December 19, 2020. He was 70. He was born on August 1, 1950 in Winter Haven, Florida to Robert Joseph and Beulah Welsh. Mike’s career spanned many jobs. From banking, to teaching at Alta Vista Elementary, and finally with over two decades with Florida Natural. No matter the work, citrus always seemed to be connected to it. Mike put great effort working and was even able to continue to work until his passing. Mike was an avid fan of the outdoors. Many a family vacation included trips to Alaska, the Appalachian Mountains, and even a trip to Hawaii. Mike was also a fan of animals, in particularly birds. He had a collection of mallard displays and paintings. As time passed, Mike gained an interest for technology. From playing Sim City or Disney themed MiDis, to FaceTiming and texting he was always quick to learn. Mike was a giver of his time. It was apparent to anyone who would see his collections of golf shirts for the many charity events he loved to participate in. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Beulah. Mike is survived by his son, R.J. Welsh and his wife, Gabi of Orlando, Florida and his sister, Terry Ann Welsh of Winter Haven, Florida. A celebration of life service will take place at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to American diabetes Assoc. www.diabetes.org/donate or your local food bank or the Lake Wales Soccer Club, Inc. is 1191 S Lakeshore Blvd. Lake Wales, FL 33853. Friends of Mike wanted to share some thoughts during this time Robbie Shields On Saturday night just before midnight, my good friend and workmate, Mike Welsh passed away. He was a great example of dedication to all he was involved. Mike was an employee of Florida’s Natural Growers for 22 years as a Staff Accountant. Mike was always helpful to his coworkers and an expert in many areas of accounting functions. I will miss him immensely. Please remember Mike’s family and friends during this time. A few comments from some accounting staff: Kay Gray: Mike always helped everyone with anything he could. He couldn't help himself even if it greatly added to his own workload, he would always make time for anyone that had a question. He always could be counted on to volunteer for events that we were involved in as a company. For the Florida's Natural Charity Classic golf tournament when he was able he would work the entire weekend not just the two or three shifts that most people worked. He also always had the welfare of Florida's Natural Growers in the forefront of his mind. I will miss Mike very much, not just as a co-worker but as a friend. Wendy Rodriguez: I’m feeling lost to lose such a good mentor, boss and passionate person. It is going to be difficult to go to work and not being able to call room 62 where I would get a good morning from Mike. He has always been there for me with suggestions, advice and answers. He always helped and considered everyone equal. Today, we have lost a great asset for our company and a great man. He will always be in my heart. Kim Strickland: Mike was always a real “Trooper” with everything he’s been through. He was such a kind and giving man and always willing to give a helping hand. Cathi Cruess: I am truly heartbroken. He was always upbeat even when things weren’t going so well. FNG and the Kiwanis club will miss him immensely. Kyle Barker: He was dedicated to making sure we ran smoothly and everything was kept up to date! He had a sharp mind and I just wish I would have been able to work with him lately in person. Kay Gray, Wendy Rodriguez, Julie Hudson, and Charmayne Harvard each called in Mike’s last hours and on speaker from Robbie Shields phone expressed their love and concern for him and what he has meant to them through the years.