Jennifer Welch

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of our beloved daughter, mother, sister and family member, Jennifer Welch, on September 16, 2026, in Nanaimo, British Columbia, at the age of 42.

Jennifer came into this world on October 31, 1983, bringing with her a vibrant presence that was evident from an early age. She was full of life, with a strong personality and an independent spirit. Jennifer was never one to be easily influenced or intimidated. She had a clear sense of who she was, valued her freedom, and lived life on her own terms, in a way that was uniquely her own.

Jennifer grew up surrounded by family, cousins, and the children of close family friends. They shared childhood years, family gatherings, laughter and many memories together. Those early connections remained an important part of her life and will continue to be treasured by those who grew up alongside her.

As the years went on, addiction became a very difficult part of Jennifer’s life and shaped much of the path she travelled. It was a battle she faced for many years. In the later part of her life, Jennifer was living on the streets of Nanaimo. While this was far from the life her family had hoped for her, it became part of her story and part of the community in which she lived. It never erased the person underneath or the connections she made with people along the way.

Those who knew Jennifer on the streets of Nanaimo will likely remember her well. She had an unmistakable presence. When her buttons were pushed, Jennifer’s unmistakable voice could get a little louder, and she was never afraid to let you know exactly how she felt. She could be outspoken, determined and fiercely protective of herself, and she was certainly not someone who was easily forgotten.

Even while living on the streets, Jennifer took pride in her appearance and in keeping herself neat and well-groomed. Among some who knew her there, she earned the nickname “Colgate” because of her noticeably white, clean teeth. It was one of those little things that became uniquely Jennifer and that those who knew her will likely remember with a smile.

Jennifer formed friendships and connections within the street community, and we know there are people there who shared parts of her life that her family may never fully know. They, too, are part of her story, and we know her passing will be felt by many whose lives crossed paths with hers.

Above all, Jennifer loved her children deeply. No matter where life took her or what challenges she faced, the love she carried for them remained constant. Her family also held an important place in her heart. Even during some of the most difficult times in her life, she would still greet those close to her with the simple words, “I love you.”

Jennifer also had a kind and caring side. She showed kindness to many people she met along the way and understood, perhaps more than most, what it meant to face difficult circumstances.

Jennifer will be lovingly remembered by her mother Judy Michaud, and stepfather Mich Michaud; sister Danielle Welch (Nephew Asher Mitri); sons Austin Welch, Ashtyn Lawson-MacNeil, and Christian Docouto; step-brother Michael Michaud; aunts Joan Kleinsteuber, Cheryl Miller, Ann Panton; uncle Leroy Miller; father Stephen Welch; step-sister Stephanie Welch; and her cousins, Christine Kleinsteuber, Robin Peterson, Tawnie Sigurdson, Sarah Rushton, Shawn Neurauter, Howard Neurauter, Melissa Neurauter, Christie Little, and Heather Ell.

Jennifer was predeceased by her son, Jayden Welch; grandmother, Viola Miller; and uncle, Larry Miller.

She will also be remembered by extended family, close family friends, and the many people whose lives crossed paths with hers over the years.

There will always be a wish for more time, more conversations and more memories together, but Jennifer will remain a part of the lives and hearts of those who loved her.

May she be remembered with love, held forever in our hearts, and surrounded by the love and peace she always deserved.

A funeral service for Jennifer will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at First Memorial Funeral Services, 1720 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, British Columbia.

A lunch will be served following the service, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share memories and spend time together.

For family and friends who are unable to attend in person, there will also be an opportunity to join the service virtually by Zoom. The Zoom link and joining information will be shared prior to the service.