Published in the October 19, 2018 edition

MELROSE — Charles Douglas Welch, 67, passed away suddenly at his home in Melrose, on Wednesday, October 10, 2018.

Charles was born in Winchester to the late George and Lois (Gill- Hogan) Welch. He was raised in Wakefield, graduated from Wakefield High School, Class of 1969. Mr. Welch received his bachelor’s in Education from Southwest Missouri State University. Charles traveled extensively with his wife Karen who served her country with pride for several years in the US Army. He taught school in Missouri, Alaska, and Kasaxstan and for over eight years in Dalian, China which he just recently had returned from.

He was a 3rd Degree Mason in the Wakefield Masonic Lodge, was a Past Master Councilor and a Chevalier recipient for Demolay in the Masons. He loved to travel, lived in Salem, Newport News, Va.; Marina, California; Fort Riley, Kansas; Alaska, Buffalo, Missouri; and has lived in Melrose since 2004. Mr. Welch enjoyed performing in community theater in Reading and Marblehead and had a wonderful sense of humor. He also worked as a professional clown over the years.

Charles was the beloved husband of Karen T. (Petrino) Welch of Melrose. Loving father of Alexis Henshaw and her husband Donald of Calif. and Brian Welch and his wife Jeanette of Missouri. Cherished grandfather of Hailey, Brandon, Tyler, Gabriel, Mackenzie, London and Carl. Caring brother of Pixie Scharn, Tina Curless, Buddy Welch and the late Deborah Bartnick. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, students and friends.

A memorial service will be held at the United Church of Christ Congregational, 6 Lexington St., Burlington, Mass. on Monday, October 22 at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements by Gately Funeral Home in Melrose. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com