WELCH: Peacefully, with the love of his family by his side, at Huron Hospice–Bender House, Clinton, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, William “Bill” Henry Welch of Grand Bend, passed away at the age of 86. Beloved husband of Onalee Ann (Gill) Welch. Loved father and father-in-law of Tim and Lynn Welch of Brantford, Ian and Abigail Welch of Port Orchard, Washington. Cherished grandpa of Cory Welch and Megan Welch. Dear brother and brother-in-law of Joyce and Don Marshall of Woodstock, Harry Moore of Sydney, BC., Janice and Lee McCutcheon of Goderich, John and Debra Gill of Grand Bend. Remembered by his nieces, nephews and their families. Predeceased by his parents Henry Albert and Annie May (Rudy) Welch, and sister Elizabeth Moore. At Bill’s request, cremation has taken place. A Private Family Service has been held. Interment Oxford Memorial Cemetery, Woodstock at a later date. Bill was an Industrial Arts teacher at the W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind in Brantford for 25 years and enjoyed a life of hiking and canoeing. Arrangements entrusted to the T. Harry Hoffman & Sons Funeral Home, Dashwood. If desired, memorial donations (payable directly) to Parkinson Society, the Huron Hospice – Bender House, Clinton or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Bruce R. Thielking
Bill and I worked together at WRMS. At that time it was The Ontario School For the Blind. I was a new teacher, and had only taught Industrial Arts to so called NORMAL kids for two years. I did, however , teach blind students as part of my teacher training, at the New York State School for the blind, in Batavia. New York.
Bill did not say much, and I often wondered what he thought about this brash, young, American. I am sure that the powers that be must have consulted with Bill when evaluation of my performance was needed.
I remember two things about Bill. His passive solar heated house fascinated me. I was fortunate enough to be invited for a tour, on more than one occasion.
The other was the hand building of a cedar strip canoe. Incredibly difficult, careful work. I believe it was started the year before he retired, and was finished by the end of June. Bill was a full time mentor and for not only me, but for the students. Bruce Thielking
Ken & Sandra Leeuwestein
Joyce and Don,
We are sad to read of your loss. We know this can be a difficult time but be patient with yourselves and greive whenever, however and where ever you feel you need to. May memories of happy times together see you through the sad times ahead.