Gerald C. Welch

April 13, 1941 - September 29, 2013

Gerald C. Welch age 72 passed away Sunday, September 29, 2013 at the Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, Florida. Gerald was born in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania and moved to the Ellenton, Florida area in 1990. He was a retired Industrial Painter. Gerald will be remembered by those close to him as a car enthusiast. He had a deep love for racing and at one time even owned and drove his own race car. He was also a passionate NASCAR fan who always pulled for Jimmy Johnson, so it was fitting that his favorite driver won a record setting 8th win at Dover. He is survived by: his loving wife of 23 years – Sylvia; a Daughter – Holly (Mike) Meier; Step-children – Justin Houser; and Karen Houser Brother – Robert Welch; Sisters – Roberta Welch, Patricia Barnes, Joan Knesich, Peggy (Dave) Soden, Connie (John) Gawron and Brother in Law – Gary Lankford; 2 Grandchildren – Nichole (Luke) Meier-O’Neil and Trisha Meier; Several Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. He was preceded in death by 2 Sisters – Sheila and Michelle. A gathering to celebrate Gerald’s life is planned for Saturday, October 12, 2013 from 4:00PM to 6:00PM at Bay Shore House at Colony Cove. All arrangements are under the careful direction of Page-Theus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Leesburg, Florida.