Howard Anderson Welch, age 70, of Moss Bluff, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 9, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Howard was born on January 24, 1953 in Lake Charles to Beuford Emile Welch and Margaret Lemaire Welch.
Howard, a native of Lake Charles/Westlake, spent most of his life in the area. After completing his education at Westlake High School, he furthered his studies at McNeese State University, earning a Masters in Education. For more than 15 years, he dedicated his time to teaching and coaching at Westlake and S.J. Welsh. Beyond his role as an educator, Howard possessed a diverse range of talents that he applied across various industries. He approached every task and endeavor with unwavering determination, believing that no challenge was impossible for him.
In Howard’s spare time he enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his family. In addition to enjoying his hobbies, he was passionate about helping and donating his time to others.
Howard was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Ellen “Dee Dee” Douget Welch (d. 1990), wife Elizabeth Joann “Betty” Bell Welch (d. 2022), granddaughter, Addison Grace Welch, and his parents.
Those left to cherish his memory are his three children, Keith Alan Welch in Dallas, TX, Brian Stephen Welch (Michelle) in Lake Charles, LA, and Brent Anderson Welch in Lake Charles, LA; two grandchildren, Ellie Grace and Jagger Keith; brother, Kenneth Welch (Kathy) in Lake Charles, LA; niece, Pippa Welch Soileau; and nephew, Joshua Welch.
Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at Hixson Funeral Home, Westlake with a Rosary beginning at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will resume from 8:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m on Thursday at the funeral home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at Noon on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at St. John Bosco Catholic Church in Westlake with Rev. Aubrey Guilbeau officiating. Burial will follow in Westlake Memorial Park Cemetery in Westlake under the direction of Hixson Funeral Home of Westlake.
Howard's family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors and staff at M.D. Anderson Hospital, and Harbor Hospice for their wonderful care & compassion shown to him during his illness.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Catholic Charities of SWLA in Howard's honor.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hixsonwestlake.com for the Welch family.
