DIXMONT – Earl Richard Welch, 77, died July 5, 2010, surrounded by his family after a brief illness. Earl was born April 5, 1933, in Brooks, son of Elwood and Mary Welch. Earl served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. After returning from his military duty, he worked in the meat industry for Armour Foods for 38 years, before retiring to a drive school bus, which he enjoyed greatly. Earl was a past master and 50-year member of Archon Lodge No. 75 AF & AM, Dixmont; past commander of Richard Simpson American Legion Post No. 201; and past president of Dixmont Gold Crest Riders Snowmobile Club. Earl was a continuous donor for the American Red Cross – something he believed helped many people. In his younger years, Earl enjoyed gardening, camping, old cars and snowmobiling. Earl was an active volunteer for many projects – his last, which he was very proud of, was the Veteran’s Memorial for the American Legion in the town of Dixmont. Earl was also a passionate supporter of our troops. Earl is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janet of Dixmont; a daughter, Deborah of Bangor; two sons, Jeff of Levant and Frank and his wife, Jennifer, of Dixmont; granddaughter, Nicole of Stetson; grandson, Kyle of Dixmont; sisters, Joyce Chase and husband, Richard, of Unity and Marilyn Applebee and husband, Vinal, of Enfield; brother-in-law, Darol Ricker of Jackson; sister-in-law, Viola Welch of Knox; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Earl was predeceased by his parents; a brother, Elwood Jr.; sister, Myrtie Ricker; and a daughter-in-law, Brenda Welch. Family and friends may visit 5-7 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden, where a funeral service will be conducted 1 p.m. Saturday, July 10, with Pastor Brent Trueworthy officiating. Memorial contributions in Earl’s honor may be made to American Legion Post No. 201, P.O. Box 35, Dixmont, ME 04932. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through www.hampdengilpatrick.com.
EARL R. WELCH
