Obituary of James Sears Welch

VALLEY FALLS – James Sears Welch, 94, of Valley Falls, formerly of Schaghticoke, entered into rest on December 20, 2022, at Van Rensselaer Manor. The son of the late John G. and Mary (Sears) Welch, James was born on June 15, 1928, in Stillwater, New York. James was raised in Stillwater, where he received his High School education and has resided in Schaghticoke and Zephyr Hills, FL. Following High School, James was drafted in the United States Army and was stationed in Fort Devens, MA, during the Korean conflict, remaining on the state side during enlistment. He received an honorable discharge for his service. Mr. Welch was formerly employed by Boston and Maine Railroad and Allen Farm Equipment. His memberships include Past Commander of the American Legion (Charles Waldron Post #731) in Schaghticoke, and the Schaghticoke Fire Dept. He was also a member of the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows (I.O.O F.) He was a lifetime member of the American Legion. James will be warmly remembered as a devoted husband and father, who enjoyed many years of retirement wintering in ZephyrHills, FL. Survivors include his children and their spouses: Robert D. Welch (Lynn), Janice M. Vantrease, James E. Welch (Cynthia), Paul W. Welch (Doreen), Joseph A. Welch (Nadine), John A. Welch (Susan). He was grandfather and great grandfather to many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is survived by one brother, John William Welch of Duck, West Virginia. In addition to his parents, James was predeceased by his beloved wife of 70 years, Kathryn Lois Wolfershiem Welch. He was also predeceased by his sisters Bertha Mullin of Schaghticoke and Margaret Levins of Mechanicville. The Welch Family wishes to thank The Hoosic Valley Rescue Squad, Inc. and the entire staff at the Van Rensselaer Manor. Cremation has taken place through the care of Simple Choices, Inc. A small family gathering will take place in the spring of 2023 In lieu of flowers, the Welch Family requests donations be directed to the Hoosic Valley Rescue Squad, Inc., 1448 State Route 40, Schaghticoke, NY 12154. Fond Memories and Expressions of Sympathy may be shared with the Welch Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com