John Michael Welch, a resident of Spanish Fort, AL, passed away at his residence surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at the age of 84.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas J. Welch and Ruth Hawkins Welch, and his son-in-law, Barry Andrews. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Karin Kerz Welch; two children, David (Kari) Welch of Eugene, OR, and Mary Elizabeth Welch Andrews of Daphne, AL.; and grandchildren, Maeve Andrews, Rory Andrews, Patrick Andrews, Max Welch and Olivia Welch. He is also survived by his brother, Edward (Patricia) Welch of West Palm Beach FL., and five nieces and nephews.
John was a devoted husband, father and teacher. He taught History at Spring Hill College from 1965 until his retirement as Professor Emeritus in 2008.
On Tuesday, December 20, 2022, there will be a time of visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 711 College Avenue in Daphne, AL, followed immediately by Mass at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment to follow at Belforest Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations may be made to The John Welch Endowed Scholarship Fund, Spring Hill College at https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/28031/donations/new
The family would like to express a special thanks to Miranda, Kristin, Elvira, and Amy of Comfort Care Hospice, Fairhope, Alabama.
Expressions of condolence for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com. Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
Mr. Welch taught American History at SHC. He was a fine professor with a dry wit that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Mr. Welch was a History teacher of mine when I was a student at Spring Hill College (1972-1976, Class of 1976, BS Communication Arts). He was an outstanding teacher. Mr. Welch was part of an excellent faculty overall at Spring Hill when I attended. Condolences to Mr. Welch’s family, friends, Spring Hill College colleagues, and fellow former students of his, rest in eternal peace. Fondly remembered, please be assured of my prayers.
Sending love and peace to the Welch family. He was a remarkable scholar and person, and we are privileged to have had the opportunity to know him.
Heather Breiter and Pat Dunne