Jerry Donald Welch

Jerry was born November 15, 1942 in Gregory, South Dakota, residing with his family throughout several Midwest states and as far west as Oregon. Jerry worked as a ranch hand and pipe layer, he even spent some time at the rodeo as a bronco and bull rider. Jerry eventually ended up in Valentine, Nebraska, where he met his lovely wife, Ginny. They were married December 23, 1964. The couple moved to Springfield, Missouri where Jerry worked as a painter. Together they raised seven children. The family moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1979. He was employed as a welder at Fick Foundry and Atlas Foundry - both in Tacoma, Washington, later running his own manufactured home repair company until his retirement. Monday through Friday was all work and no play. But come hunting season he was packed and headed out, always having a freezer full of venison and elk, nothing to waste. Many head mounts were placed throughout his home. Reloading, bow hunting and leather crafting where just some of the hobbies he enjoyed. Being a very stern man, all the teenager friends of his children knew not to tread close to the line, mind you his house was always, always active and full of friends. Amazingly Jerry was able to provide his wife Ginny 24/7 care during their last 5 years together - cooking, doctor appointments, medications and mostly daily companionship. Who would have ever thought he could take on this role! Jerry freely chose to keep her at home and did so until her passing July 30, 2012 at the age of 68. He stepped up and never turned away. It takes someone special to be 100% dedicated to a loved one traveling the unknown roads of Alzheimer’s, not only for her but for him also. This is where the passion, love and concern flourished from him. Preceded in death by his wife Virginia (Ginny) Rae VanDevort, Parents Lewis Martin Welch and Vraina Mae Leetch, sisters Marjorie and Virginia, and brother Gayle. Jerry is survived by three brothers – Pete, Harlan and Garry, his sister Jackie, and his seven children: Jerry Donald “Donnie” Welch, Michael Shane Welch, Billy Joe Welch, Debbie Lee Williams, Lisa Marie Welch, Lewis Wade Welch, Tanya Renee Hardie. He had seventeen grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and two on the way. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial, Funerals Homes, Chapels and Crematories. 253-566-1008