Ford Stubbs Welch

Jan. 28, 1937 - March 24, 2014

Ford Stubbs Welch died last year, March 24, 2014, at the age of 77.

Ford was a Cowley native and son of Ford and Ruth Welch, born Jan. 28, 1937. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bernice Welch.

[caption id="attachment_9867" align="alignright" width="229"] Ford Stubbs Welch[/caption]

One interesting story from when Ford and Bernice were first dating: Louise Croft (Welch) and Bernice were roommates in college. Ford met Bernice at a dance in Billings and from there they continued to date. A short time later, Ford went to his grandfather, Charles Golden Welch, to ask for permission to marry Bernice. When his grandfather found out that it was Bernice that Ford wished to marry, he granted permission on the spot.

Together, Ford and Bernice had five kids - Jeff, Nicole, Jason, Morgan and Damon - and 11 grandkids: Keegan, Keeley and Kaitlen from his daughter Nicole and husband Steve; Sarah, Ashley, Amy, Jessica and Kolton from his son Morgan and wife Lorena; and Dylan, Ford and Sophia from his son Damon and wife Sherry.

Of all his accomplishments after having left Cowley and marrying Bernice, Ford was most proud of his wonderful family. He loved family gatherings and delighted at seeing his grandkids play and enjoyed having his sons and daughters stay late into the night. Any family member, no matter how distant, and anyone he came into contact with throughout his life could feel his unconditional love. Once you met him, it was impossible not to respect and admire him.

The grandkids wanted to share what they remember most of their Grandpa Ford:

From Keegan, Keeley and Kaitlen: “His hugs were incredible and they always made you feel loved. He could talk you through anything and you’d always feel more confident on the other side. He was the most caring person any of us have known.”

From Sarah, Ashley, Amy, Jessica and Kolton: “He gave the best hugs. He’d never hesitate to hold, sing, read or play with any of us. He was always supportive and tried to go to all of our performances and soccer games. He’d always tell us how proud he was of us and he made the best scrambled eggs. He’s loved and missed every day.”

From Dylan, Ford and Sophia: “He always gave such strong hugs. He made the best pancakes and we loved to garden with him. Young Ford is also proud of carrying on his name.”