JOE EARL WELSH
Joe Earl Welsh of Eureka, died on Monday, July 18, 2022, at his home in Eureka, at the age of 70.
He was born on October 2, 1951, to Lyle Birney and Violet Marion (Runnells) Welsh in Eureka. He attended Eureka public schools and later Emporia State University. He was a U.S. Marine from August 1972, to October 12, 1975. Some of Joe’s fondest memories were working in the oil fields with friends and family. After attending Emporia State, Joe went on an adventure in Alaska for several months, fishing with friends.
Joe was united in marriage to Della Watts. To this union, he gained a daughter and two more were born. This marriage later ended in divorce. Joe drove a tanker working in the oilfield for several years. Later he drove for Dolly Madison, proud to have earned a belt buckle for no accidents. When Dolly closed Joe retired early and went back to school, graduating from Flint Hills Technical College. During this time, he was able to take care of his grandchildren. On July 4, 2011, Joe was united in marriage to Lynne Mari Fitzgerald in Eureka, from which he gained another stepdaughter.
Joe was a people person and was often told that he talked more than any woman ever known. He may not be able to put a name with a face, but he could sure give you any sports stats. He knew where most players went to college too.
He is survived by his wife, Lynne of the home; three daughters, Summer Welsh of Topeka; Rebecca Welsh and partner, Colt Massey of Mullen, Nebraska; Laura and husband, Clark Neill of Virgil; stepdaughter, Maggie and husband, Todd Perry of Hutchinson; eleven grandchildren: Emily, Caleb, Shelby, Erika, Toni Jo, Aiden, Maela, Felix, Zenith, Matthew, and Sasha; and two siblings, Dwayne and wife, Dana Williams of Fall River; and Marilee and husband, Kevin McCoy of Eureka. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two siblings, Mary Lamb, and Lyle Welsh.
A life celebration was held at 10 a.m., Monday, July 25, 2022, at Koup Family Funeral Home, Eureka with Pastor Larry Evans of the Neal Evangelical Free Church officiating. Cremation had been effected. Inurnment followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Eureka. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Kansas Humane Society. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, PO Box 595, Eureka KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online, at koupfunerals.com.