In Loving Memory of Gordon Terry Welch – February 6, 1938 – July 30, 2025
Gordon Terry Welch passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana. Surrounded by devoted family members and cared for by compassionate doctors and nurses, he spent his final days enveloped in love. Gordon led an active and healthy life, continuing to walk several miles a day until a recent injury in July.
Born in Rexburg, Idaho, on February 6, 1938, to Wanda (Young) and John “Jack” Welch, Gordon moved with his family to Townsend, Montana, at the age of six—a place he proudly called home for the rest of his life.
He graduated from Broadwater County High School (1956), as a talented athlete, who participated in basketball, football, and track. He enrolled at Montana State University in Bozeman, but he returned home midway through his first year, when his father passed away, because he wanted to help with the family farm. He stayed in Broadwater County and began his lifelong career in farming and ranching. His passion for sports endured throughout his life, and he was known to run 5K races well into his eighties.
In 1974, Gordon married Mary Olsen. Together, they built a loving and blended family that is their greatest joy. They supported their children through every endeavor, celebrating their hobbies, adventures, and milestones with pride. Gordon had a deep love for the land, especially riding horses, herding cattle, tending to chores, hunting, fishing, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, Wanda and Jack; and his siblings, Bryan Welch, Margo Dundas, and Carmen Murphy.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary, and their children: Delbert (Shauna) Henry, Randy (Jami) Welch, Elizabeth (Eli) Clarkson, and Greg (Clare) Welch; his four children from a previous marriage to Marcia Schieno: Shane Welch, Wade (Mary Lou) Welch, Melanie (Kevin) Kimmel, and Marnie Welch (Doug Heiser); and his siblings: Marsha Marks, Bruce Welch, and Gary Welch. His legacy lives on through a large and cherished family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and an extended network of family, friends, and loved ones.
A service to honor Gordon’s life will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Townsend, Montana. Following the service, there will be a graveside dedication and a luncheon back at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice or to the Townsend LDS Church, whose support has been deeply appreciated during this time.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00am
Friday August 8, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
916 Broadway Street
Townsend, Montana 59644
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Friday August 8, 2025
Deep Creek Cemetery
50 Deep Creek Road
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Following the Graveside Service
Friday August 8, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
916 Broadway Street
Townsend, Montana 59644
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00am
Friday August 8, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
916 Broadway Street
Townsend, Montana 59644
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Friday August 8, 2025
Deep Creek Cemetery
50 Deep Creek Road
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Following the Graveside Service
Friday August 8, 2025
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
916 Broadway Street
Townsend, Montana 59644
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Ward and Sherry Scoffield says
We are very saddened by our good friend Gordon’s passing. We keep Mary and all of their families in our prayers.
Dennis and Sharon Clarkson says
Prayers of comfort for the family, especially our amazing daughter in law, Beth. We are so thankful for the wife you are to our son, and mom you are to Jada. We love you. Continue prayers for Mary and many other family members. Sorry we are out of the country at this time and unable to attend the celebration of Gordon’s life.
Kathleen Welch says
Aunt Mary and family, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I have so many treasured memories of getting together with Delby and Beth as kids and of just spending time together as families. I know Gordon continues to watch over all of you, and his spirit will be with you always. Sending much love your way.
Donna Colby says
Thoughts and prayers Lynn and Donna Colby
Jim Hinman Brenda Hinman says
Mary and family, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We have always thought highly of you and Gordon.
Dana Rauser says
Sorry for your loss, I’ve known Gordon for a very long time. He always took time to visit with me or anyone else he knew. Shane and I had a few hunting excursions with Gordon and it will always be etched in my mind of the ground he could cover when there was an elk in front of him. Gordon and his 375 H&H Magnum but later went to a 300 Weatherby. Rest in peace Gordon. He has a great bunch of children also . My condolences.
David Rauser says
Sincerest condolences to the family, Like Dana said Gordon was always interested in conversation whenever I saw him. He always had a smile, and a hello for me. I have always had the utmost respect for his ability to cover a lot of ground when he was hunting. Gordon will be missed!
Lois Welch Magdall says
Condolences to Mary and all the families .
Gordon had a wonderful sense of humor and a kindness for family, friends and animals. I’ll remember you fondly in my heart and knowing your with your love one on high.
Art Graham says
My sincere condolences to my classmate Mary as you grieve this loss. Gordon was one of the first adults I.knew as a 6th grader when we moved to Townsend. Gordon was an uncle to my cousins, Scott and Cole. They looked up to Gordon with the utmost respect. And I always found Gordon to be a respectful and hard working man as I grew through high school. I know he will be missed by many. Godspeed to Mary and family as you move forward
Trudi Downer says
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Gordon will be missed.
Joe Cazier says
Condolences and Prayers of Comfort to the family. I always enjoyed our interactions and visits. Gordon was a tremendous man.
Skye Melessa Johnson says
I was blessed to cross paths with Gordon many years ago when I was a young missionary in Townsend. He was always a delight and offered kindness that made a real difference to me then and left a lasting impression. Sending love to Mary and family at this time of parting. May God grant you peace and hope for a glorious reunion.