George W. Welch

Mr. George W. Welch, 94, passed away Thursday, October 15, after a period of declining health.

George was born in St. Johnsbury, VT on May 31, 1926, the son of George P. Welch and Elizabeth Bailey. He was raised in Nashua.

George entered the U.S. Navy at the age of 17, serving for two years in World War II until his discharge in 1946. He re-enlisted in 1948, serving during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He retired from service in 1968 with a rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. In his later years, George loved to share stories of his times in the Navy including his travels to Borneo, Hong Kong, Guam, and the Philippines, among others. His greatest love was his time in Japan where he met and married his true love, Mihoko Nozoe Welch. He often told others that he loved her so much he married her three times, once for the church, once for the Navy and once for Emperor. They were married for 53 years until the time of Mihoko’s passing. George and Mihoko were able to cross a language divide in their early relationship and a cultural divide during post-WWII.

Upon his Naval retirement, George and his family moved back to New Hampshire where he entered his second career at Hampshire Manufacturing. In addition to his work as a Quality Control Manager, he was also active in the International Management Club (IMC) where he served as President. In his spare time, he enjoyed many hobbies including cooking, woodworking, gardening, fishing, reading, and sewing. He was always busy doing something and took pride in his home.

George’s greatest joy was his family. In his late 80’s George learned to use Facebook so he could see all the postings from family and friends, near and far. He is survived by his son, George Arthur Welch and his wife, Cheryl Whittier, of Loudon, NH, and his daughter, Betty LaFleur and her husband, Stephen LaFleur, of Brookline, NH. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Isaac Welch and his partner, Samantha Bold, Olivia Welch Erdahl and her husband Daniel Erdahl, Cameron LaFleur, and Kirsten LaFleur; and three great grandchildren, Joseph Erdahl, Matthew Erdahl, and Caleb Erdahl. George is also survived by his sister, Patricia Bailly and her husband Richard Bailly, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased, by his siblings, Muriel, Rosalie, and Irving.

George was known for his kindness and quiet nature. He always had nice words for everyone around him. He developed close friendships that were treasured by him and others. Those include friendships with Paul and Tomiko Anctil, Josie Janz, and Marina Maffia. George and his family also appreciated the loving and competent care he received from the dedicated staff at Hillsborough County Nursing Home during the past year. He always talked about “Angel,” but truly they are all angels. Thank you to all who provided love and friendship to him through the years. It was always appreciated. As he would say, “See you around the campus! Love to all of you!”

At the request of George’s family, all services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made In George’s name to the Nashua Humane Society, 24 Ferry Road, Nashua, NH. Arrangements under the care of ROCHETTE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, Nashua. To leave an online condolence, story, or message please visit www.ANCTIL-ROCHETTE.com.