John Earl Welch 81 of Clinton, Illinois passed away 9:12 A.M. February 18, 2021 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington, IL.

 

Services will be 2:00 PM, Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at the First Christian Church, Clinton, IL with Pastor Stephen Bradd officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton, Il. Visitation will be 5 – 7 PM, Monday, February 22, 2021 at the First Christian Church, Clinton, IL.  Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL is in charge of arrangements.

 

Memorials may be directed to the Church of Christ, Clinton, IL.

 

John was born October 18, 1939 at the family home near Birkbeck, IL the son of Nathan and Mary Ona (Spencer) Welch. He married Nita K. Barnhill on June 6, 1959 in Clinton, IL.

 

Survivors include his wife, Nita K. Welch, Clinton, Il.; children:  John “Mike” (Deb) Welch, Decatur, IL; Jeff (Patty) Welch, Clinton, IL; Susan (Tony Brennan) Welch, Clinton, IL; and Steve (Sherri) Welch, Waynesville, IL; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-granddaughter; and siblings, Merle Welch, Clinton, IL and Mabel Rich, Minooka, IL.

 

John was preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters, and 2 brothers.

 

John retired after 30 years of service at Caterpillar Tractor.  After retirement, he worked at the elevator in Birkbeck.  John enjoyed bowling and fishing, and he loved his dog, Tinker.  He was most proud of the hard work ethic he instilled in his children.  Spending time with his family and family dinners is what John enjoyed most of all.  He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.