Charles J. Welch

Charles "Chuck" J.Welch, age 87, died in his sleep January 3 at home. Born March 28, 1925 in Adams, MA, to Thomas and Glorina, he graduated from Adams High School in 1943 and immediately enlisted in the Army. Chuck served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters on the Acadia, a cruise ship recommissioned as a hospital ship. On September 28 1953, he married Mary Rowley, the love of his life. Mary passed away on October 28, 2012. Chuck worked in the transformer department at General Electric and as a sales manager for DuBois Chemical Co. until retiring in 1988. He was a lifelong member of St Thomas Church, served in the Knights of Columbus, and volunteered for Catholic Charities. Chuck also served as a Deputy Sheriff, School Committee Member, and Town Assessor. He was a multi-gallon blood donor, delivered meals on wheels until this year, and as a visitor was a tireless deliverer of good cheer to the residents and staff of the Williamstown Commons. In retirement he enjoyed walking, tending his yard and gardens, rooting for the Red Sox, and most especially supporting, entertaining, and talking about the accomplishments of his seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Survivors include sons: Thomas and wife Joelle of Williamstown; Michael and wife Susan of Portland, ME; Charles and wife Jacqueline of Scituate, MA; also grandchildren: Kyla, Conor, Lauren, Luke, Olivia, Finn, and great-granddaughter Neve, along with many nieces and nephews. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, January 8th, at 9:00 AM from the PACIOREK FUNERAL HOME, 13 Hoosac St. Adams, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in the Parish Church of Blessed John Paul, Adams. Burial will follow in Bellevue Cemetery, Adams. Calling hours are Monday from 5 to 7 PM at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are welcome at Adams Post 160 American Legion, 160 Forest Park Ave. Adams, MA 01220, or Meals on Wheels through Elder Services of Berkshire County, 66 Wendell Ave. Pittsfield, MA 01201; or even better, do a random act of kindness in honor of Chuck, who did so many for others. Chuck was a sweet, friendly, optimistic person with dozens of close friends. He believed in the goodness of all people and continued his habits of giving rides to hitch-hikers and offering mint Lifesavers to strangers until the very end. To leave a message of condolence, or for directions, please go online to www.paciorekfuneral.com

Charles J. Welch

March 28, 1925 - January 3, 2013