David was born on December 15th, 1946, to Lucille Welch (Warren) and Tolbert Welch, in Kansas City, KS where he was raised with his five siblings and graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1964. He went on to obtain his bachelor's and master's degrees in Art Education from Emporia State University and served 34 years as a teacher in the KCK Public School District until his retirement in 2002. David was an accomplished athlete at Wyandotte High School and served as a football and track coach at Argentine Middle School during his early career before assisting and coaching his daughters’ softball teams from their childhood through teenage years.
David married the love of his life, Vicki, on August 16th, 1969 and remained devoted in marriage for 52 years. He was a loving father to his two daughters, Erika and Megan. Always a teacher and coach at heart, he took an active role in his daughters’ activities throughout their young lives and into adulthood. He became a grandfather in 2013 and doted on his grandson, Maxwell. He welcomed his newest grandson, Elliott, in July 2020. He pursued many hobbies throughout his life and became a highly skilled craftsman and photographer. He spent many retirement years travelling with his wife and capturing the natural wonders of the United States.
David approached life with enthusiasm, creativity, and a wonderful sense of humor, and will be deeply missed by many. He is survived by his wife, Vicki Welch (Waugh); his daughters Erika Welch and Megan Berry (Welch); his grandsons Maxwell and Elliott Berry; his brothers, Warren, Alford, and Paul; his sister, Annie; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Cleveland.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 16th from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the McGilley & Hoge Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, KS, followed by a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Kidney Fund.
