Nancy Lynn Welch, 58, passed away on August 20, 2024 at St. Mary's Hospital in Clayton, Missouri, following a 10-month battle with glioblastoma.

 

Nan was born on May 3, 1966 to Jim and Jeanne Welch (nee Kessler). She spent her childhood in Sunnyland and Washington, Illinois.

 

In 1984, Nan graduated from the Academy of our Lady/Spalding Institute in Peoria, Illinois. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Apparel Design at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in 1989, she settled in the St. Louis area, where she would spend the rest of her life.

 

Nan had a robust career, excelling in a succession of positions related to clothing design and production. Prior to her cancer diagnosis, she was the head of product development at Propper International, a manufacturer of tactical gear and clothing for the U.S. military and emergency responders.

 

Nan is survived by her son, Robert J.G. Wrone; eight siblings - John Welch, Mike Welch, Pete Welch, Pat Welch, Mark "Goo" Welch, Julie Stewart, Tom Welch and Tim Welch;  sisters-in-law Kate Welch, Denise Welch, Lori Welch, Cindy Welch, Sherry Welch, Debbie "Pokie" Welch, Carolyn Welch and Carla Welch; a small army of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great- nephews; and many friends.

 

They all grieve the loss of the classically beautiful and fiercely intelligent "Twig."

 

Nan's parents preceded her in death, as did two brothers: Jim Welch and Bill Welch.

 

Per her wishes, Nan was cremated. A service will be held at a later date in Washington, Illinois.