Jim Welch

Jim Welch, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 8, 2026, just six days after he celebrated 61 wonderful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Nancy Welch. Born on October 13, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, Jim embodied a spirit of kindness and generosity that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

His career as a tool and die maker began at Phelps Tool and Die in 1964, where he honed his craft until 2001. He then continued his dedicated work at the Lake City Ammunition Plant until his retirement in 2009. Throughout his life, Jim was not only known for his professional skills, but also for his extraordinary character. He was the embodiment of a caring and compassionate individual, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His playful wit and kind-hearted nature made him a cherished presence in the lives of many.

Jim's love for the great outdoors was evident through his hobbies that included camping, hunting, hiking, and embarking on off-road adventures. He treasured every moment spent surrounded by the beauty of nature, but it was the time he shared with his family and friends that meant the most to him. Once he became a grandpa he loved spending as much time as possible with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Rain or shine he was at every game or event possible with Nancy by his side.

As a devoted father to his three children – Jim Welch (wife Lillian), Jackie Phillips (husband Mike), and Kevin Welch (wife Kim) – Jim instilled in them the values of kindness, humility, and the importance of family. He took immense pride in his grandchildren - Maggie, Eric (Jim), Matt, Katherine, Connor (Jackie), Ella, Cody (Kevin), and was overjoyed to welcome great-grandchildren - Blake, Mason, Claire, Lucas (Matt), Olivia, and Isabella (Katherine), Oliver (Eric) - into the family.

In addition to his immediate family, Jim remained close to his siblings: Frank (Bub) Welch, Genevieve (Genny) Paszkiewicz, and John Welch. He cherished the bonds of love and support they shared, which were as strong as the very fabric of their family.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Frank Welch, and by his siblings: Margaret Beutin, Patty Paszkiewicz, Eileen Baumgardner, Mary (Sis) Welch, Joseph (Joe) Welch, and Timothy (Tim) Welch. They welcomed him with open arms into eternal rest.

His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of many, yet the memories of his warmth, laughter, and unwavering support will continue to live on in each person he touched. A visitation, funeral service, and graveside service will be held on January 13, 2026, at Muehlebach Funeral Care in Kansas City, a fitting place to honor a man whose life was defined by connection, love, and unyielding kindness.

Jim Welch will forever be remembered as an all-around great person, a true embodiment of selflessness, and a beacon of human decency in a world that greatly needs such souls. His legacy will carry on through the generations that follow and the lives he enriched with his genuine and compassionate spirit.

Memorials may be made in Jim's honor to The Alzheimer's Association.