Anthony Ronald "Tony" Welch

August 6, 2019
With good old country music playing in the background and his 4 children at his side, Anthony Ronald Welch (Tony) slipped away from us on the night of August 6th, 2019 at the Cascades Hospice after a short struggle with lung cancer. He had just turned 84 on July 18.
Tony was born in Nipawin, Saskatchewan to Walter and Jessie Welch. He was the 6th of 8 children. In his earlier years he was known as Ronnie.
He left home in his early teens and came west where he did odd jobs such as working in the orchards, to get by before he enlisted in the Air Force (RCAF) at the age of 17 with his Mother's permission. He and Betty were married in 1954.
In his early career Tony was an aero mechanic of which he was particularly proud of. He had many postings over his military years and retired out of CFB Chatham. The family returned to Chilliwack where he began employment with Corrections Canada. He spent over 35 years with the Federal Government.
Us kids remember our fishing days with Dad the most, whether it be up Tamihi Creek or an early morning boat ride to a far-off sand bar on the Fraser River. He was a handyman, did wood working, a true grease-monkey, an avid 5-pin bowler and even helped set up the Youth Bowling on CFB Chilliwack, where he also helped run the lanes. Dad spent many years helping John in his business cutting lawns after he retired.
While living on Selkirk Street, Mom and Dad were very close to their neighbours where it was commonplace for weekend get togethers.
More recently Dad had settled into a small home in the Maple Meadows park and was surrounded by many amazing neighbours who became his close friends. They all watched out for each other and Dad had a special connection with his 100-year-old friend, Alf, next door to which he kept a close eye on.
Tony was predeceased by his parents, 6 of his siblings, his wife, Betty, and his special companion, Anita. Surviving him are Ron (Sherry), Gwen (Murray), JoAnna, John (Teresa), his close friend and companion, Vi, his younger sister, June, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.
Please join us as we celebrate Tony's life on Sept. 22, 2019 from 1-5 pm at the Chilliwack Curling Club (9291 Corbould Street, Chilliwack). If so desired, donations, in Tony's memory, can be made to the Canadian Lung Association or the Chilliwack Hospice. Online condolences can be shared with family at Remembered.com - Anthony Welch.
The family wishes to say a special thank you to Drs Wojcik and Graham for their great compassion shown towards Tony. Thank you to the nurses in the Chilliwack Hospital and the Hospice (sorry Dad poked you in the belly Gary, but he had a great sense of humour).