William "Bill" E. Welch, 83, of Glen Carbon, IL, passed away on August 5, 2021. Bill was born on December 25, 1937 in Springfield, IL to James H. Welch and Mary Alice Reed Welch.

Bill was a 1955 graduate of Cathedral Boys High School in Springfield, IL. Following graduation, Bill served the U.S. Navy aboard U.S.S. Newport News from 1956 to 1959. He was honorably discharged from the Navy on February 14, 1959.

Bill married his high school sweetheart, Regina Dunn, on September 1, 1956 in Springfield, IL. They celebrated 64 years of marriage in 2020 and he lovingly referred to her as his "bride" until his final days.  At the conclusion of his military service, Bill worked for IBM for 33 years as a branch manager in St. Louis, MO, Kansas City, MO and Decatur, IL. Following his successful career at IBM, he transitioned to his role as the President of Magna Bank Data Center, where he served for 11 years before retiring. Bill took immense pride in his career accomplishments and military service.

Bill enjoyed traveling, fishing, reading, studying history, and gambling. He truly had a zest for adventure, taking part in Mardi Gras in New Orleans, LA, exploring the Grand Canyon, and playing slots at the various casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Bill had a passion for food, especially seafood. In addition, he was an excellent baker, evidenced by the delicious pies he baked for family gatherings.

In addition to his parents, Bill was proceeded in death by his brother, James Welch and sister, Donna Sotak.

Bill is survived by his wife Regina; his three children, Deborah (Tim) Ruwe of Hobe Sound, FL, Erin (Kevin) Bergman of Festus, MO and Scott Welch of Edwardsville, IL; 5 grandchildren, Clint (Beth) Ruwe of Pekin, IL, Cole Ruwe of St. Augustine, FL, Alyssa (Nolan) Martz of Moro, IL, Roderick (Whitney) Bergman of Gunnison, CO, Quintin Bergman and Kendra Cope of Vero Beach, FL; and six great-grandchildren, Sullivan Ruwe, Collins and Palmer Mae Martz, Connor, Corbin and Chloe Beach.  Bill also has two surviving sisters; Linda Fisher and Cindy Danenberger both of Springfield, IL.

Bill was an incredible husband, father, and Poppy who will be dearly missed.  His memory will live on forever by those who loved him most.

After a private family burial, Bill will be honored at a Celebration of Life on a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.