Remembering a Classic

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Earl Douglas Welch (Doc) on August 29, 2026, whom everybody loved.

Earl was born on September 17, 1952, in Birch Hills, Saskatchewan, to Melvin and Mary Welch. As one of 15 children, he grew up with no shortage of memories to share. He became one of the best storytellers anyone could know. Even if you had heard a story before, you would gladly listen again because Earl knew exactly how to bring it to life. His timing, humour and unforgettable way with words could leave an entire room laughing until there were tears in their eyes.

Family was at the heart of Earl’s life. He was predeceased by his son, Chad, in 2016; his parents, Mary and Melvin; his sisters, Geraldine and Lenore; and his brothers, Bud, Mac, Glen and Grant. He leaves behind his wife, Julie; his daughter, Kelly (Mike); his son, Shane; and his grandchildren, Emmersyn, Kaden, Jett, Summer and Mavi. Also mourning his loss are his brothers and sisters, Ethel, Scotty, Leslie (Janet), Lance (Betty), Stacey (Bev), Bruce, Lois and Ralph (Holly). Each of them will carry pieces of Earl with them – his humour, his stories, his personality and perhaps a little of that Welch stubbornness too.

Earl enjoyed hunting, gardening, quadding and using his tractor for many purposes. He loved going to car shows and driving his pride and joy, a 1955 Chevy Bel Air. He could always be found in his garage, usually with a Budweiser in hand, tinkering or finding one more detail he could make just a little better. We suspect Budweiser sales may never be quite the same.

We will miss Earl’s stories and jokes, along with the kindness he showed so freely. He was always ready, willing and able to help a friend or neighbour in whatever way was needed. We will remember him in the laughter shared around the family table and whenever we hear the rumble of an old Chevy.

We love you, Earl. We will miss you more than you could ever know, and we will never stop telling your stories.

There will be no service at this time, in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.

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Until We Meet Again

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