Montpelier, VT

Reginald D. Welch, 85, of Montpelier, passed away on February 15, 2024 after a brief illness. He was a loving and devoted brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He died peacefully surrounded by family at the Central Vermont Medical Center.

Reg was born on December 19, 1938 in St Johnsbury to Gordon and Ruth Welch (Gibson) of Peacham. Reg grew up in Peacham, Canaan, Island Pond, Newbury, and St Johnsbury. He attended Keene State College, the University of VT, and ultimately graduated from VT Technical College in 1962, with an Associates of Applied Science degree in Highway Technology.

After college, Reg honorably served his country as a radio technician in the United States Army from 1962 to 1965. During his time in the Army, Reg was stationed in Korea where he taught English classes to middle school children during his spare time. He also sponsored a deaf-mute boy to attend the only school for the deaf in Korea. Following his military service, Reg became a career employee of the VT Agency of Transportation. He worked in the construction, design, and utilities sections; and traveled to every corner of the state until his retirement in 1996.

Reg was also very involved in the community. He was an active member of Bethany Church in Montpelier, where he served as president, historian, and deacon at various times. Reg also coached youth baseball and flag football and served as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader. He was also a member of the Capitol City Jaycees, VT JCI Senate, and the St Andrews Society of VT.

In addition, Reg had a life-long passion for genealogy. He worked tirelessly with various local, state, national, and international historical societies and record repositories to collect artifacts and complete details of his family tree. Reg even travelled to Scotland to visit ancient family homesteads, surprising and endearing the current residents with his unabashed and sincere curiosity. His friendly and gregarious nature served Reg well when making connections with people from all walks of life.

Reg was predeceased by his father, mother, sister Marjorie Welch (stillborn), and sister Beverly Isham (Welch). He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Elizabeth Welch (Brear) of Montpelier; son Rory Welch and wife Nancy of Manassas VA; son Keith Welch and wife Sandra of Winchester VA; four grandchildren; brother Raymond Welch of Greensboro NC; brother Donald Welch of East Montpelier; along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Reg's life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Bethany Church in Montpelier.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or to Bethany Church

(https://www.bethanychurchvt.org).

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so

at www.guareandsons.com.