John Francis Welch

BRANDON:

John Francis Welch, age 79, passed Sunday, October 20, 2024, at The University of Vermont Medical Center.

John was born in Rutland July 1, 1945. He was the son of Ralph and Florence (Miner) Welch. He grew up in Brandon where he received his early education and graduated from Otter Valley Union High School, class of 1963. After graduation, he joined the United States Army and served in Germany. He was Honorably Discharged in 1966 and returned home. He began his working career with General Electric in Rutland. He retired as a machinist in 2000, following more than 33 years of service. He belonged to Brandon American Legion, Post #55 and was also a member of the Rutland Veterans of Foreign Wars. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and collecting rocks and minerals. He was an avid sugar maker.

He is survived by his wife; Blanche (Rider) Welch of Brandon; whom he married July 29, 1995, 2 daughters; Lori Ann Donaghy and Pattie Lynn Welch, a step-daughter; Eugenie Coursey and a step-son; Fred Elliott. 3 grandchildren also survive him. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister; Shirley Ann Forward.

The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 10 AM, at the Miller & Ketcham Funeral Home in Brandon. The graveside committal service and burial; with Military Honors; will follow, in the family lot, at Pine Hill Cemetery. Following the ceremony the family will receive friends at Brandon American Legion, for a time of remembrance.

Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 from 4-6 PM.

Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers may be made, in his memory to; Brandon American Legion Post #55, P.O. Box 25, Brandon, VT 05733.