Joseph James Welch Jr.'s Obituary
Joseph James Welch Jr., age 81, of North Ridgeville, passed away on Friday, March 22, 2019 at the University Hospital Elyria Medical Center.
He was born on September 24, 1937 in Cleveland and has been a lifelong resident of North Ridgeville. He worked as a union carpenter in Cleveland for 33 years, retiring in 1989. He attended Fields United Methodist Church in North Ridgeville.
Joe was an avid Cleveland Indians and Browns fan, who enjoyed shooting pool, was on a bowling league for many years, and roller skated in his youth. He was also a big fan of the Bee Gee’s music. His greatest passion was found in ‘coon hunting and trapping, and he was one of two state certified trappers for the State of Ohio.
He is survived by his longtime companion Bonnie Hamlin; daughter Tina Oliver of Florida; foster daughter Tricia Brady of Bucyrus; grandchildren Matt and Ray Oliver, Heather, Jason and Barbara Hughes and Tyler Temple; 3 great grandchildren; sister Loretta (Robert) Butler of North Ridgeville; brother Jack Welch of North Ridgeville; many nieces and nephews.
Joe was preceded in death by his daughter Julie May Hughes; parents Joseph Sr. and Julia (nee Porelli) Welch; brother Bob Welch.
Memorial Service Saturday at 3:00 p.m. in the Bogner Family Funeral Home, 36625 Center Ridge Rd., N. Ridgeville, where family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until time of service. Rev. Mar Bruner will officiate. Interment will be private.
What’s your fondest memory of Joseph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joseph?
Share a story where Joseph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joseph you’ll never forget.
How did Joseph make you smile?