Donald Welch

Donald W. Welch, Age 89 of Cottage Grove, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Donald was born on September 28, 1928 to Frank and Esther (Hario) Welch in St. Paul, Minnesota. He grew up in St. Paul, graduating from Harding High School in 1946. After high school Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his county. He attended the University of Minnesota and during that time he met Margreth Heinbuch while dancing downtown St. Paul. They were united in marriage on May 19, 1951 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Woodbury. They started out living on St. Paul's Eastside and moved to Cottage Grove in the early 1960's. Don was employed with NSP/Excel Energy for many years, retiring at 58. He was fortunate to enjoy 31 years of retirement. He spent time traveling; several trips to Alaska, camping, cross county skiing, fishing and taking long walks. He will be remembered as a generous family man.

Preceded in death by son, Michael; son-in-law, Gary Salmela; parents, Frank and Esther; siblings, Francis Donahue, Jack, Kathleen Benson. Survived by loving wife of 66 years, Margreth; children, Christine (Michael) Leitner, Sandra Salmela, Deborah (Dale) Schmitz, Jeffrey (Sue), Donald (Michelle); daughter-in-law, Linda; 15 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; brother, Robert (Donna); many other family and friends. Funeral service, 11 am Monday, April 2 at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church (1000 Portland Ave. St. Paul Park) with visitation starting at 10 am. Interment Cottage Grove Cemetery.