Joseph David Welch

Joseph David Welch, age 57, a resident of Tulsa, OK, passed away at his residence on Friday, May 19, 2023.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at noon on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church in Broken Arrow, OK. The services will be officiated by Father Shelby Scott, arrangements were made by Reynolds & AdamsCrest Cremation and Funeral Services.

Joe Welch was born on September 11, 1965, in Tulsa, OK, to Edna (Whitehead) and James Welch. He attended East Central High School in Tulsa and later pursued his education at Labette Community College in Parsons, Kansas, on a baseball scholarship. After leaving Labette, Joe enrolled at Tulsa Technology Center, where he obtained certifications in Electronics and Aviation Maintenance Technology Powerplant/Airman Mechanic, earning a General Aviation Mechanic degree.

For over 25 years, Joe worked as an aviation mechanic for American Airlines, steadily advancing his career to the role of crew chief. He remained dedicated to his work until his untimely passing. Outside of work, Joe found joy in the company of his beloved dogs: Liam and Earle, two Golden Retrievers, as well as James and Roan, two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. He had a passion for various activities, including hunting, fishing, camping, and shooting. Joe also enjoyed the challenges of repairing RC cars and planes, alongside his love for rebuilding and restoring cars. Among his prized possessions was his 1977 Z-28 Camaro, a vehicle he cherished since his high school years.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, James and Edna, as well as his older brother, Johnny Welch.

Surviving Joe are his three children: Lindsey Welch of Sallisaw, OK; Haley Jones and her husband, Jamie, of Van Buren, AR; and Joseph Welch of Tulsa, OK. He is also survived by two brothers: William (Bill) Welch and his wife, Deb, of Knoxville, TN; Jimmy Welch and his wife, Cindy, of Broken Arrow, OK; and one sister, Jennifer Davis. Joe is lovingly remembered by his 14 grandchildren: Tristin, Josiah, Harley, Easton, Iris, Phoenix, Shelton, Frank, James, Amelia, Ivan, Aliviah, Austynn, and Odin. Additionally, Joe is survived by numerous friends and family, including his long-time friend since 9th grade, David Phillips of Catoosa, OK.

The Welch family wholeheartedly appreciates the tremendous support and attendance at Joe's memorial service. Your presence provided comfort and uplifted our spirits during this challenging time. We would like to express our gratitude to Reynolds & AdamsCrest Funeral Services for their compassion and exceptional care. Thank you for honoring and helping us celebrate the life of Joe Welch.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph David Welch, please visit our floral store.