Ronald Joseph Welch, 88, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, surrounded by his loving family.


A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald's Southwood Chapel.


Born on April 18, 1937, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Ron was a proud graduate of Holy Family Catholic School. He served honorably in the U.S. Army and later earned a degree in mathematics from the University of Tulsa. Ron spent his career as a systems analyst with American Airlines, where he worked with dedication and integrity until his retirement in 1999.


Ron was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a deeply cherished grandfather. He had a sharp eye for photography and a passion for building-whether it was homes or memories. His creativity and craftsmanship were matched only by his quiet strength and unwavering love for his family.


He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Irmgard Welch; his sisters Mary, Jeannie, and Chrissy; his beloved granddaughter, Jessica; and his son-in-law, Dave.
Ron is survived by his wife of many years, Willadean Welch; his daughters Traci Smith, Kelly Armstrong, and Joey Bailey (Allen); his grandchildren Cale Smith (Angela, Kennedy, and Judah), Jared Smith (Ciara), Christian Armstrong, Conner Armstrong, Anna Bailey, Lizzy Bailey, and Will Bailey; his brother Johnny Welch and sister Kathy Welch.


Ron will be remembered for his deep faith, his quiet wisdom, and the pure joy he found in being "Papa" to his grandchildren. He earned the affectionate nicknames "Papa-razzi" for being the family photographer and "Papa-wheelie" for riding his motorcycle well into his 70s-proof that his spirit of adventure never faded.


Ron's life was a testament to quiet strength, enduring love, and the joy of family-his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.