James Carroll Welch, age 74, of Clinton, MI, passed away at his home on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Born in Tecumseh, MI, on December 28, 1950, Jim was the son of the late Roderick Hewitt and Janet Lois (Frost) Welch. He married Madaline Jean Welch on January 5, 1970, who preceded him in death on June 10, 2019.
After graduating high school, Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army as a tank mechanic before dedicating his career to the automotive industry as an auto mechanic. He had a passion for drag racing at Milan Dragway and other local tracks, and he enjoyed bowling, even serving as the Clinton High School Girls Varsity bowling coach. Above all, Jim cherished his family and loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports.
Jim is survived by his children: Christine (Todd) Foster of Leonard, MI; Glenn Welch; Brian (Tara) Welch; and Jay Welch, all of Clinton, MI; six grandchildren: Zach, Tyler, Davia, Wyatt, Sierra, and Sadie Welch; two sisters: Teresa (Gary) Fetzer of Adrian, MI, and Cindy (Del) Sterling of Rothbury, MI; and a special friend, Lisa Sterling. He was preceded in death by Madaline; his parents; his brother, Roderick Welch; his sister, JannaLee Welch; and his stepmother, Wilma Welch.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A gathering in remembrance of Jim will be held at the Clinton Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Clinton High School Athletic Department. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.handlerfuneralhomes.com.