John Donald Welker

John Donald Welker “Don,” 87, of Oklahoma City, OK, passed away at home on Tuesday, September 23, 2014. He was born to Kenneth & Mary Ann Welker on September 3, 1927, in St. Louis, MO. During his childhood, Don and his family moved to Oklahoma where he attended Central High School in Oklahoma City. After graduation, he served for nearly five years in the Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Sergeant, until being honorably discharged in 1952. On August 13, 1950, he was married to Tomi Jean Welker. They were married for 53 years until her death in 2003. He spent his career working in the fire safety inspection industry. Don was a sports enthusiast as an athlete, coach, and fan. He loved watching all kinds of sporting events especially those in which his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were participating. He loved to garden, especially taking care of his rose bushes and making sure his lawn was well-manicured. Don loved to take road trips with Tomi around the country to national landmarks and to inspect the fall foliage. He had a quick wit and could make anyone laugh with his often dry humor. Don was also a cancer survivor. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Tomi Jean, by his parents, by his brother Dick Welker, and by his granddaughter Annie Heinze. He is survived by his five children, whom he loved deeply, and their spouses: Dicki Parks & Danny, Stan Welker & Kim, Johnny Welker & Diane, Terri Headrick, Bucky Welker, Lisa Welker, and Jeff & Cindy Heinze. He also adored his fourteen grandchildren and their spouses: Heidi (Parks) Corey & Chad, Marmendy (Welker) Thompson & Tim, Danny Parks & Kara, Trey Welker & Anna, Elliott Welker, Ryan Parks, Kimberly (Welker) Fox & Aaron, Holli Headrick, Hillari Headrick, Christy Heinze, Alyssa (Welker) Miller & Matt, Robby Headrick, Carli Welker, as well as 15 great-grandchildren. Donations can be sent to Catholic Charities. Visitation is scheduled for Sunday from 6:00-8:00 pm at Baggerley Funeral Home, 930 S. Broadway, Edmond. Graveside services will be at 2:00 pm, Monday, Sept. 29 at Memorial Park Cemetery, 13400 N. Kelley, OKC.