John Welch, 93, Ellendale

John Donald Welch, age 93, of Ellendale, formerly of Blooming Prairie, passed away on Monday, March 20, 2023, at Whispering Oak Place in Ellendale.

John was born May 25, 1929, in Chicago, to John and Gladys (Lappin) Welch. He graduated from Minneapolis West High School in 1948. Following high school, John enlisted into the United States Navy, proudly serving his country from 1948 until 1952.

After his honorable discharge from the service, he went on to obtain his teaching degree in English and Spanish with a minor in Social Studies from Macalester College in 1956.

He was united in marriage to Arletta Albers on April 27, 1956, in Minneapolis, and together had three children. John began his teaching career in Hancock, Minn., where he coached baseball. He also taught in Mound, Minn. before beginning a 24-year career teaching at Blooming Prairie High School.

In his free time, John enjoyed reading, playing piano, and building model vintage airplanes.

Survivors include his son, Jay (Susan) Welch of Mantorville; daughters, Patricia (Michael) Theuer of Ellendale, and Paula (Mark) Klassen of Lockport, Ill.; nine grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Gladys Welch; wife, Arletta Welch; and one sister in infancy.

A Celebration of Life for John will be held from 10-12 p.m. on Friday, March 31, 2023, at the Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home in Blooming Prairie. Interment will be in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston.

Memorials are preferred to the Blooming Prairie Education Foundation or the Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club. Heartfelt thank you to the staff of Whispering Oak Place in Ellendale for the excellent care they gave to John.

Services are prearranged and performed by Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.