Michael Clayton Welch

Known to family and friends simply as Mike, he was a loving son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, and loyal friend. Mike spent many years working in airplane structural repair before later building and operating his own successful business. He had a passion for racing pigeons and love of animals in general. He also enjoyed bowling, music, and he could often be found behind a microphone at a karaoke bar. Generous, kind-hearted, and devoted to those he loved, Mike believed deeply, loved fiercely, and always put family first. Those who knew him will remember his strength of character, his unwavering convictions, and the joy he brought to every gathering. We take comfort in knowing he is now at peace and reunited with his beloved mother.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Sandra A. Lorefice; his father, Charlie Lorefice;his brother, Charlie Lorefice Jr. and his brother-in-law JD Walker.

He is survived by his father and stepmother, Clayton and Elizabeth Welch of Norwich, New York; his sister, Vianne Bringhurst Welch of Gainesville, Georgia; his brother, Gerry Welch of Norwich, New York; and his brother and sister-in-law, Peter and Naomi Lorefice of Spring Hill, Florida, brother and sister in law Cowboy & Dot Lorefice, sisters Grace Lorefice Gross, Patricia Lorefice WInkle, Mary Lorefice Walker and brother Angelo Lorefice.

Mike cherished his role as an uncle and great-uncle and shared close relationships with many of his nieces and nephews, including Jennifer DeLong (Ryan Mauldin) of Gainesville, Georgia; Danielle Singleton of Mount Vernon, Texas; Michaela Lorefice (James Thedford) of Spring Hill, Florida; and nephews Matt DeLong of Gainesville, Georgia and Chance Barnes of Statesville, North Carolina. He is also survived by his great-nieces, Chloe and Bella DeLong, of Gainesville, Georgia. In addition, Mike leaves behind 23 nieces and nephews and 19 great-nieces and great-nephews who will forever cherish his memory.

Mike's life was defined not by the years he lived, but by the love he shared, the friendships he built, and the lasting impact he made on those fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.