John Joseph Welch, age 80, passed away peacefully at home on July 8, 2026. A warm, strong, and steady presence, John was always the one to call, whether you needed a good joke or a tractor fixed.
Born and raised in Wadena, Minnesota, John lived for many years in Forest Lake, Minnesota, before settling in Luck, Wisconsin, for his retirement.
As a young man, John proudly served in the U.S. Navy. He later spent 30 years with the St. Paul Companies. Upon retiring, John and his beloved life partner, Nancie Naughton, moved to Luck, where they built a life perfectly tailored to the two of them, immersing themselves in antique collecting, opening an antique shop in Webster, Wisconsin, and enjoying the beauty of their farm.
John shared over four decades with Nancie, who preceded him in death in January. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Neva (Barker) and Thomas Welch; his siblings, Jerry Welch, Loretta Davis, Joan Conlin, and Larry Welch; and nephew, Larry Welch Jr.
He is survived by the two daughters he loved as his own, Jennifer Naughton and Mykayla Washington; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sisters, Patricia Welch, Sharon Asselin (Bob), and Mary Kay Wurzinger (Chuck); and many nieces and nephews.
In his final years, John was tenderly cared for by his granddaughter, Jynessa, to whom the family extends deep gratitude for her dedication and love. The family also thanks Heather and the team at St. Croix Hospice for their support.
A Celebration of Life and burial for both John and Nancie will be held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 22, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Frederic, Wisconsin.
You are invited to leave condolences, memories, and photos at rowefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, 715-472-2444.
