Lavern "Vern" Dean Welch's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce that Lavern “Vern” Dean Welch of Fountain, MI
passed away in a Grand Rapids hospital on July 21, 2025 at the age of 72. For the
past several years he had battled multiple health issues, finally slipping peacefully into
the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Born on May 7, 1953 in Kamakwie, Sierra Leone, West Africa to his missionary parents,
Rev. and Mrs. Melvin (Norene) Welch, of Mears, MI. Lavern was almost 2 years old
when the family returned home to Mears. When he was 7 years old, his family moved
to Marion, IN where Vern’s talents in music, acting, and art blossomed. Vern was the
Right Guard/Lead Trumpet in Marion High School’s international award-winning
Marching Band, First Chair Violin in Orchestra, a member of Madrigal Singers, and
performed the leading role in the musical “Little Mary Sunshine”. Having been born in
Africa of American parents, when he came of age he chose to be a citizen of the USA.
Vern’s keen mind and management abilities were great assets in several positions he
filled, but his true passion was with nature and farming as he loved raising animals,
vegetables, and fruits. Rounding out his life, he also took an active advocate role in
local politics.
Vern is survived by his wife Carla, son Joel Eric (Cecilia) Welch, daughter Julie Erin
Welch, son John Edward (Angela) Welch, son Joseph Edgar (Delena) Welch, son
Jeffery Snyder (Kristina) Welch, sister Carol (Max) Brown, brother Mark (Lori) Welch,
Father-in-law Curt Jones, Mother-in-law Linda (Mike) Sagers and their children, 12
grandchildren, Aunts Jill Jeffries and Marilyn Heersema, and numerous cousins. He
was preceded in death by his mother, Velma Norene (Jeffries) Welch, Father Melvin
Welch, Step-mother Ione (Marshall) Welch, and Step-mother Arlynn (Herzog) Welch.
A Celebration of Life for Vern is planned for October 18, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Way of
Christ Church (formerly West Golden Church), 2752 N 34th Ave, Mears, MI 49435. In lieu of
flowers, the family requests money for final expenses and a memory garden in his
honor. Send to: Family of Vern Welch, 1925 Audubon Hill Pl., Lincoln, CA 95648. Vern
will be deeply missed by many family members and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Lavern "Vern"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lavern "Vern"?
Share a story where Lavern "Vern"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lavern "Vern" you’ll never forget.
How did Lavern "Vern" make you smile?
