SPRINGFIELD, IL - Ralph A. Welch, Sr., 87, of Springfield, passed away Thursday, Jan 14, 2016, at Auburn Nursing and Rehab.

Ralph was born Oct. 27, 1928, in Springfield, the son of Ralph David and Helen Hussey Welch. He married Esther Goesling on Nov. 8, 1952, in Carlyle; she preceded him in death on June 22, 2002.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving during WWII and the Korean War. He worked for Hummers Manufacturer and later retired as a machinist from Fiat Allis after 24 years. He was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church where he was also involved with the Lunch Bunch. He was also a member of Navy Club Ship 32. He was a fan of both the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs.

In his earlier years, he coached Ty Cobb Little League, was involved in Midget Auto Racing and was on the pit crew for Ted Cotner. He was a handyman and enjoyed woodworking and electrical work.

His favorite pastime was his time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Dorothy Smith.

He is survived by four children: Ralph (Jean) Welch Jr. of Chatham, Ron (Linda) Welch of Springfield, Pam (Rick) Williams of Decatur, and Jerry (Geri) Welch of Tucson, Ariz.; three siblings: Mary Tapp of Wickenburg, Ariz., Robert (Joie) Welch of Minneapolis, Minn., and Charles Welch of Richfield, Minn.; one uncle, Walter Welch of Springfield; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 22, 2016, at Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home. Additional visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2016, at Concordia Lutheran Church with the Rev. Michael Koschmann officiating.

Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery where the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail will conduct honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Concordia Lutheran Church.

Ellinger-Kunz & park Funeral Home, 530 N. 5th St., Springfield, IL 62702 is in charge of arrangements. Visit our online obituary at www.ellinerkunfuneralhome.com.