Traverse City-Gary Michael Welch, 56, of Oscoda, died early Tuesday morning, December 11, 2012, at Munson Medical Center.

Born in Detroit, he was the son of DuWayne Louis and Phyllis Ann (Leff) Welch.

On March 23, 1985 in Brighton, he married the love of his life and best friend, the former Esther Anna Brandenburg.

He was a true outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Gary will be fondly remembered as a loving family man, who adored his wife, children and grandson.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Esther of Oscoda; children, Alexis (Keith) Werda of Flint, Alaina (Jason) Thomas and their son, Sawyer; of Traverse City, Georgia Welch of Vancouver, WA, DuWayne Welch of Oscoda and Brandon Welch of Oscoda; father, DuWayne L. Welch of Flint and a sister, Carol (Chuck) Carpenter of Leavenworth, IN; along with nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place.

Gary will be remembered privately by his family.

Kindly share your memories with the family on their online quest book at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com

Arrangements were made with the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 305 Sixth Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.