Robert Kenneth ‘Bob’ Welch

MARQUETTE — Robert Kenneth “Bob” Welch, 72, of Marquette, passed away unexpectedly on March 19, 2024.

Bob was born on January 27, 1952, in Denver, Colo. at St. Joseph’s Hospital to Roy E. and Lillian J. (Nelms) Welch.

Bob married the former Kristine L. “Kris” Chylek of Escanaba, Mich. in 1984. Together they started a family and had their daughter, Denise, and later on two grandchildren.

Bob worked as a tow truck driver, over the road semi-truck driver and commercial painter.

Bob loved his grandchildren immensely, WWE wrestling, his cars and was also an avid Denver Broncos fan. He adored his many beloved cats he had over the years and is survived by his cat, Olaf, and preceded in death by his cats, Emily, Beatrice, Junior, Ruphus and Sammy.

Bob’s departure comes as a great shock and leaves a deep wound that is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who loved him dearly.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Denise (John) Abramson; grandchildren, Madilyn and John “Bubba” Abramson; brother, Michael (Kris) Welch; and multiple cousins. He was preceded in death by Gramps and Grandma Nelms; his parents, Roy and Lillian Welch; former wife, Kristine “Kris” (Chylek) Clemins; and his uncle, Vern.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held in Colorado at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Bob’s name to UPAWS, 815 S. State Highway M553, Gwinn, MI 49841.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting Bob’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com