Obituary of Robert Howard Welch Jr.

Robert Howard Welch, Jr., known affectionately as Bob, passed away on November 18, 2023, at the age of 74 in Pensacola, FL. Born in April of 1949, in Philadelphia, PA, Bob's life was characterized by his passion for living, his dedication to his career, and his loyalty to friends, family and community. After a long and successful career as a small-town attorney, he spent the last several years of his life enjoying the warmth and sun of Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama, with his life partner, Mary Winn Gatch.

Bob graduated from Hatboro Horsham High School in PA before earning a B.S. in Accounting from Rider University in NJ in 1972. He furthered his education in KY at Salmon P Chase College of Law, obtaining his J.D. in 1976. His academic foundations paved the way for a distinguished career in law. Bob was a partner at the law firm of Crowe & Welch in Milford, Ohio, which he co-founded with life-long friend and colleague, Stephen Crowe. Bob was deeply respected for his expertise, kindness and dedication to his clients and tenants. His legacy in the legal field was cemented in 2004 when his son, Robert H. Welch III, joined the firm, continuing the family tradition to this day.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob was a man of many interests. He and his partner, Winnie, cherished their travels to places like St. John, VI, and Perdido Key/Gulf Shores where they enjoyed their condo with friends and family for many years. Once he hosted all of his kids and their spouses on a cruise from Puerto Rico to other parts of the Caribbean. When he retired, Bob and Winnie moved down to Ono Island full time where he was able to explore his penchant for country music at the nearby Flora-Bama (he was always a big fan of Kenny Chesney). Bob was a fan of action movies, with 'Top Gun' being one of his favorites, and he never missed an episode of 'Yellowstone.' His mornings were often spent listening to National Public Radio, or watching CNN, a testament to his love for staying informed.

Bob's warm personality and his joy in socializing were evident to all who knew him. His old friends from Hatboro and especially from Milford and the newer ones from Ono Island meant the world to him. Bob's smile and his generous spirit left a lasting impression on his friends and family. He was fond of visiting his sister, Carol, and her family, as well as starting new traditions such as enjoying Thanksgiving with his sister and his daughters, Courtenay and Lori, along with their families.

He is survived by his life partner, Mary Winn Gatch; daughter, M. Courtenay Welch Constable (husband, Philip) and her mother, Linda J. Brown Brooks; his son Robert H. Welch III (wife, Julie), and daughter, Lori Welch Burnett (husband, Roland) and their mother Valerie C. Fredlund Welch; and Bob's sister, Carol Welch Janssens & nephews Nick and Alex Janssens. In addition, he had 4 grandchildren, Elizabeth Constable, Abigail Welch, Henry Welch, and Christian Burnett. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert H. Welch, Sr. and Doris Gemunden Welch. Bob and sister Carol were always especially close, having shared in the loss of their mother, Doris, at a very young age. Bob and Winnie's doggie, Indigo, will also miss Bob and their frequent walks.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Bob can be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, supporting research and development towards curing Parkinson's disease. Bob had been struggling with symptoms of Parkinson's for several years. He opted for back surgery to help with the pain, and he passed away several months later in a rehab hospital after complications from the back surgery. Those who knew and loved him will always miss his quick smile, his upbeat and supportive manner and his love of life.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Robert Welch Jr., please visit our Tree Store