Samuel Douglas Welch Sr.

Samuel Douglas Welch Sr.

1942-03-16 – 2026-01-19

“"Like A bird singing in the rain let grateful memories survive" Robert Lewis Stevenson”

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Samuel Douglas Welch Sr., born on March 16, 1942, in Hamilton, Ohio, peacefully passed away onJanuary 19, 2026. He was the cherished son of Jerry Welch Sr. and Jessie Mae (Cook). Sam's journey through life was marked by his dedication to hard work and a deep passion for various interests and hobbies. Educated at Lincoln Elementary, Wilson Jr. High, Taft Senior High School in Hamilton, Ohio, as well as the Cleveland Butcher School, Sam excelled in his studies and later pursued careers that aligned with his talents. He brought his expertise as a butcher to establishments such as Buckeye Food Locker and Marsh Supermarket, and later transitioned to roles at Pitney Bowes working with metering mail and at Miami University in security. In his free time, Sam found joy in fishing, camping, antiquing, and most notably, attending auctions. His warm and welcoming nature meant that he never knew a stranger, leading to countless friendships formed over the years. One of his greatest pleasures was watching his great-grandchildren gleefully discover new treasures from "pa-pa's toy bucket," a gathering of trinkets always ready for sharing.

Sam is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Catherine Sue (Baker) Welch, and his loving children: Sam Welch Jr. (Brenda), Michael Scott (Wendy) Welch, Kelly Welch Hunley, Shelly (Tim) Melcher, and Denise (John) Lowry. He will be remembered fondly by his grandchildren: Eddie (Alison) Welch, Cody (Hannah) Welch, Christopher (Jessy) Melcher, Andrew Melcher, Whitney (Ritchie) Fullam, and Lauren Lowry, as well as his great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Waylon, Charlotte, Jack, Bella, Killian, Emery, Andi, and Rory. Samuel was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Sr. and Jessie Welch, and his siblings Jerry Jr., Floyd, and Patricia Preston. He will also be dearly missed by his very special nephew, Mike Preston, and his beloved fur baby, Harley, who was his loyal companion throughout his life.

Samuel Douglas Welch Sr. leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and a genuine love for life that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace. In loving memory of Sam, we mourn a loss but celebrate a life beautifully lived and deeply loved. We find comfort knowing Sam rejoices in the glory of God. A Celebration of Life will be held February 21, 2026, at White Oak Christian Church (1500 Ross Millville Road, Hamilton, OH). Family and friends are invited to gather for fellowship beginning at 11:00 AM, followed by a special time of remembrance and reflection led by Pastor Chris Emmons at 12:00 Noon. The afternoon will conclude with family goodbyes from 1:00 to 2:00 PM.

Donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation at www.ncpf.us.