Paul W. Welch

Lansing, NY

Paul W. Welch, of Ridge Rd., Lansing, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2014, at the age of 86.

Born March 1, 1928 in South Starksboro, VT, Paul was a son of the late Elliott and Lydia Varney Welch. Paul’s family moved to the Watkins Glen area when he was a young boy, and after graduating from Watkins Glen High School in 1945, Paul worked at Shepard Niles in Montour Falls before joining the US Army in 1950. After being honorably discharged in 1952 from the Army, Paul returned to the King Ferry area, where his family had relocated. He worked at International Salt for a time and then at Lansing Service Station where he eventually became the owner. During this time he met his bride to be, Fannie McFeaters, and they were married on August 18, 1956. Paul and Fannie continued to operate the service station and also the Lansing Hardware Store. In between work and raising a family, Paul drove school bus for thirty years for the Lansing School District and in later years drove tour bus for Swarthout and Ferris. He also taught EMT Trauma and Cardiac Certification courses at TC3. Paul had a community minded spirit and energy that benefitted many organizations. He was a member of the Lansing United Methodist Church, Lifetime member of the Lansing Fire Dept., Ludlowville Pine Grove Cemetery Association and the Lansing Historical Association. A good husband, father, grandfather and friend, Paul was a kind man and always quick to help anyone in need.

Paul is survived by his wife of 58 years, Fannie McFeaters Welch; their daughters, Melinda Grant of MD, Lauretta Welch of MD, and Lanette Erdman (Patrick) of PA; grandchildren, Brandon, Jessica, and Nicole Grant, and Hunter, Hayden and Logan Erdman; brothers, Merrill Welch (Beverly) and Richard Welch (Barbara); sisters, Esther Thurston and Elinor Osterhoudt (Bob); his faithful canine companion, Joey; and a large extended family.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his son, Lon Welch and a brother, Chester Welch.

Family will be present to receive friends from 1-3 pm and 6-8 pm, Friday, October 24th at Lansing Funeral Home, 32 Auburn Rd., Lansing. A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Marti Swords-Horrell, will be held at 1pm, Saturday, October 25th at Lansing United Methodist Church, 32 Brickyard Rd., Lansing, followed by burial, with Military Honors, at Ludlowville Pine Grove Cemetery, Lansing.

In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution to the Ludlowville Pine Grove Cemetery Assn., PO Box 232, Lansing, NY 14882 or to a charity of your choice.