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Stephen T. Welch, 82, of Centre Hall, was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023.
Born on May 2, 1941 in Lock Haven, he was the son of the late William H. and Vivian J. (Johnstonbaugh) Welch.
Just shy of 62 years ago, on Nov. 18, 1961, he married the love of his life, Carol A. Eldred, who survives at home.
Steve graduated from Bald Eagle Nittany High School in 1959. He enlisted with the United States Navy in 1961 and earned the rank of Aviation Machinist's Mate (Reciprocating Engine Mechanic) prior to his honorable discharge in 1965.
In 1968, Steve started his career with the University Area Joint Authority. He was proud to have been the second employee hired there. He served as Superintendent and then became an Administrator during his 38 years of employment. He retired in 2006.
Steve was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Centre Hall. He was also a member of Smith-Pletcher American Legion Post #779 in Centre Hall and the Penns Valley Antique Machinery Association.
Steve was a true outdoorsman. He worked as a Deputy Game Warden for over 25 years, and loved hunting, fishing and spending countless hours building and making improvements at his camp. Steve was quiet but always observant, often catching people off-guard with his quick one-liners.
He loved his family above all. He was a husband, dad, brother, uncle and grandfather -- his favorite title was Papa. His memory will be cherished by those he left behind and his legacy will continue in the lives of his children and grandchildren.
Along with his wife, Steve is survived by his children, Douglas W. Welch, and his wife, Shari, of Centre Hall, Kevin M. Welch, and his wife, Paulette, of Milton, and Heather G. Welch, and her significant other, Robert Kelley, of Rebersburg; five grandchildren, Janelle Welch, Kieran Welch, Aidan Welch, Colton Treaster and Dylan Treaster; his brother, Daniel Welch, and his wife, Marie, of Avis; his sister, Abigail DeSousa, and her husband, Jack, of Coburn; and nieces and nephews, Scott Welch and his wife, Amanda, Maria and her husband, Nathan Weaver, Jason Otto and Jeremy Otto.
Along with his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his grandson, Connor Welch, on Aug. 26, 2021.
A viewing will be held at the Grace United Methodist Church in Centre Hall on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, from 10 a.m. 12 noon. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12 noon with Pastor David Downer officiating.
A graveside service with full military honors will follow at the Reformed & Lutheran Cemetery in Centre Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the HOPE Fund of Penns Valley, PO Box 427, Centre Hall, PA 16828.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Barbara Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc. of Centre Hall. To share memories of Steve, please visit daughenbaughs.com.