James Welch

James Wilbur Welch, Sr., 96 years old, of Tunkhannock went to be with his Lord Friday evening, October 17, 2025, at the Tunkhannock Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.

Mr. Welch was born on October 5, 1929, in Wellsboro, PA to the late Wilbur and Helen (Bryant) Welch. He was a 1947 graduate of Tunkhannock High School where he played the 5 sports offered by the school at the time: football, basketball, volleyball, baseball and track; in addition to being active in the band.

Mr. Welch loved Tunkhannock and was a pillar of the community. He thoroughly enjoyed spending his mornings at Curry Donuts in town with his dear friends. He entertained and served Northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond with his trumpet and as the leader of The Jimmy Welch Band. He was a tremendous supporter of Tunkhannock sports. He could be found cheering on the Tigers with his dear friend, Doc Lee from the football stadium, baseball field and basketball court. He also made sure to be at field hockey games, track and field meets and cross country meets. He loved to coach and watch his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren play sports; it was one of his most cherished passions. His keen knowledge of sports coupled with his unwavering competitive spirit poured from the sidelines in support of his loved ones.

Hard work and commitment were distinct characteristics of the way Mr. Welch led his life. He established and built the family business, Welch Associates Insurance, which he operated for decades. He made things happen; moved by his heart for service and ability to see his purpose driven visions through to realities. He was a member of Triton Hose Company #1, Station 7 for 77 years serving as Chief for 39 years and President for 29 years. He was a long time, dedicated member of the Tunkhannock Rotary Club, Tunkhannock Moose Lodge 1276, Tunkhannock Masonic Temple Lodge #248 (now Waverly Lodge #301) where he was a Past Master. Mr. Welch also served on boards of several different area organizations. He was a faithful follower of the United Methodist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Audrey Welch, along with the mother of his children and former wife, Jean Welch, his sister Peggy (Welch) Stevens and her husband Robert W. Stevens.

He is survived by his children Sally Sands and her husband Ron, James Welch Jr. and his wife Dawn, John Welch and his wife Karen, Lori Robinson and step-daughter, Peggie Hobbs, all of Tunkhannock. Also surviving are his grandchildren Stacey (KC) Peterson, Ronnie (Coleen) Sands, Lucas (Martha) Welch, Derek (Hollie) Welch, Shannon (Chris) Carney, Ben (Jill) Robinson and step-grandchildren Ron (Elizabeth) Hobbs and Drew (Jaime) Hobbs in addition to several nieces, nephews and great grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to attend Mr. Welch's funeral services which will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM from the Triton Hose Company, 108 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657 with daughter Lori Robinson and Pastor John Shaffer presiding. Interment will be held at Sunnyside Cemetery with Fireman's Rite of Honors.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Triton Hose Company, 108 W. Tioga St, Tunkhannock, PA. A Masonic Funeral Service will begin at 5:45 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Triton Hose Co. at 108 W. Tioga St, Tunkhannock, PA, 18657.

Mr. Welch's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Tunkhannock Community Ambulance and Triton Hose Company. Also, a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Tunkhannock Rehabilitation and Health Care Center and Serenity Hospice for their exceptional care, love and support. Thank you to his beloved community and vast neighborhood for empowering him to shine.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Marcho, Sheldon, and Kukuchka Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657.