Robert James Welch, II

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert James Welch, II, who died Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Mon Health Medical Center. Born on May 10, 1948, in Morgantown, WV, Bob or Jamie, depending on where you knew him from, was a dedicated professional and a cherished member of his community.

Bob served our nation honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, enlisting on May 9, 1968, and returning home on May 8, 1970. His service earned him the Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze service stars, a testament to his bravery and commitment to his country. Following his military service, Bob dedicated over three decades to the Morgantown City Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant and earned the nickname "The Woo" among his colleagues. Prior to his time with the fire department, he briefly worked as a coal miner, showing his dedication to the rigorous labor that built his community.

A devoted member of Goshen Baptist Church, Bob faithfully served on numerous committees throughout the years, contributing his time and talents to the life of his church and congregation. His dedication to serving others extended well beyond the church walls. As an active member of VFW Post 9916 and the Monongalia County Honor Guard, Bob had the distinct honor of paying tribute to hundreds of area veterans for their service and sacrifice. He also served as acting president of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 306 and was a proud member of the Fire Fighters Union.

Following his retirement from the fire department, Bob continued to pursue his passion for woodworking, spending nearly 10 years honing his craft at the MBC woodshop.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lee Welch; son, Michael Welch, with Joelle Deahl of Morgantown; three daughters, Tamara (Chris) Shannon of Akron, OH, Heather Welch, and Katie (Dan) Donnelly, all of Morgantown.

He will also be deeply missed by his seven grandchildren, Lakin and Gavin Welch, U.S. Army, SGT. Zachary Shannon, Marissa Shannon, Danielle Feck, and Robert 'Austin' Evans, Aaryanna Deahl, his sister, Helen Swaney, and his beloved dog Rooney.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Welch and Donaldeen Welch; his two sisters, Joyce Daft and Heidi Shahan; and his brothers-in-law, Larry Swaney, Charles Thomas Dick and Michael John Scritchfield.

Friends and family will gather at the Fred Jenkins Funeral Home, 10 S. High St., Morgantown, WV 26501, on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 PM and again on Thursday from 11 AM until the time of services at 12 PM, with Pastor Dan Meadows officiating. Interment will follow at the WV National Cemetery with military rites conducted by members of the WVANG and the Monongalia County Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a veterans' charity of your choice in honor of his memory.

Robert James Welch II will be remembered as a steadfast soldier, a devoted firefighter, and a loving family man. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the community he served with endless dedication.