RUSSELL WELCH

Russell J. Welch, formerly of Stanchfield, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at his home in Nebraska.  He was 63 years old.

Russell James was born on December 8, 1961, in New Prague, Minnesota to parents Lew and Gladys (Nyman) Welch.  At age 8, the family moved to the Stanchfield area where Russell attended Braham Schools, graduating high school in 1979.

He worked at Plastic in Rush City for a few years before enlisting in the United States Army on June 3, 1983.  He met Karen Akey while they were both stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado and the couple were soon married.  While stationed in Germany, they were blessed with 2 children, Andrew and Jennifer.  Russell spent much of his military career building portable hospitals and clinics and doing mechanical work.  After rising to the rank of Sargent and receiving numerous accolades, Russell was honorably discharged on June 26, 1997.   Russell and Karen later separated.

After his discharge, Russell worked for Lift Parts Service in Grandville, Michigan for a few years before moving to be near his sister Robin in Broken Bow, Nebraska where he worked as a Mold Technician until his retirement.

Always ready to lend a helping hand, Russell spent many hours helping his friend Todd mend fences and work around his Nebraska ranch.  He filled countless hours volunteering for veterans’ charities and fundraisers.  On the 22nd of every month, Russell and a group of veteran friends would meet for breakfast to support one another and to promote awareness of the 22 veterans who commit suicide each day.  His heart and help were always available to any veteran in need.

Russell worked hard but also played hard as well.  He loved playing pool and target shooting. His favorite times were spent with family canoeing and camping in the Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Russell was preceded in death by his father Lew Welch, and sister Charlotte (Gary) Voss.

He is survived by his mother Gladys Woodburn; children, Andrew and Jennifer (Orin); grandchildren, Jack, Elynora and Annika; siblings, Bonnie (Ed) Torgerson, Robin Welch, Sandy (Blaine) Hemmer, Eugene (Mary) Welch, and Joe Welch; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at the Open Arms Church of God in Grasston with Pastor Gene Sherrod officiating.

Memorial Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at the church.

A luncheon will be held immediately following the service.

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