Ivan Clarence Welch

September 4, 1939 - June 9, 2020

Ivan Clarence Welch, 80, of Traverse City passed away June 9, 2020. Ivan was born September 4, 1939 in Crothersville, IN, son to the late Jeffrey L. and Lucile Welch (Heaton). Ivan was a Salvation Army officer for many years. Ivan would continue God’s work while touching people’s lives with his kindness, and permanent jovial spirit. Whether it was through his countless hours of volunteering with the Salvation Army, or playing Santa Claus at numerous venues, his warmness always shown through. By day, Ivan was a skilled draftsman for Gourdie Fraser. He spent over 20 years with that company. Even though Ivan worked tirelessly, sometimes three jobs at a time, he did not waver from being that happy man everyone knew. He was absolutely dedicated to his family, loving them all dearly. Ivan was a joker for sure. He loved playing sports, namely basketball and softball. He also enjoyed canoeing, hunting and fishing. He also welcomed the challenge of a good puzzle. Ivan was an adept French horn, alto, baritone and trombone player. His stint as a group leader in the Traverse City Young Marines was a memorable time for him and his sons, especially when he broke his leg during a football match. Ivan proudly served in the Navy, Navy Reserves, and in the United States Army. Ivan leaves behind his wife Shirley Mae Welch (Lake); children Christine (David) R. Holly, Andrew W. Welch, Bethany K. Welch and Todd (Sandy) C. Welch; grandchildren Maddison (Christian) Bates, Brandon (Krystina), Amber (Josh) Wiggins, Nathan, Kimberly, TJ, Tyler, Tanner, and Trevor Welch; great-grandchildren Lily, Barry and Miles Bates and Ezekiel Welch; brother Hubert (Roby) Welch and sister-in-law Shirley Welch; as well as other extended family members and friends. Ivan was predeceased by his parents; infant son Rickie W. Welch; son Rodnie S. Welch; brothers Jeffrey Welch Jr. and Leonard Welch and sister Velma Johnson. A funeral service will be held Monday June 15, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City. The service will begin at 3PM, visitation one-hour prior. Leave condolences and visit Ivan’s tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. Memorials may be directed to the Michigan Patriot Guard Riders or to the Salvation Army.