Michael Andrew Welsh

In Loving Memory

Michael Andrew Welsh

A Life Lived with Passion and Purpose

 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael “Mike” Andrew Welsh on December 18th, 2024. He lived a life filled with passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones, leaving behind a profound legacy that will forever inspire us.

Born on October 1st, 1942, in Harrisburg, PA, to Hazel and Francis, he was the third of seven children: brothers, Bob, Rick and Dennis and sisters Peggy, Kathy and Barbara. Mike’s love for family was evident at a young age; he often shared stories about growing up in a 2-bedroom 1-bathroom house with 6 siblings after the family relocated to Southern California. Mike attended Sierra High School in Whittier, CA, where he met the love of his life, Jo-Ann Gentile. In 1962, shortly after Jo-Ann graduated from high school, they married. The Gentile’s welcomed Mike with open arms and he developed a strong bond with Jo-Ann’s parents Joe and Ann and three brothers Phil, Joe, and Larry. 

Mike was gifted with the ability to build or fix just about anything. He would later follow this passion and return to school to earn his degree at Fullerton College. He spent most of his career in the HVAC field. A natural-born teacher, he found the most joy in training others.

In 1963, Mike and Jo-Ann started a family of their own with the birth of their first son, Michael, and five years later, their second son Christopher. They lived in Whittier, CA until 1977 when the family moved to Fair Oaks, California. Mike was a hands-on dad and took great pride in the role of a father whether it was coaching Little League, working on cars, or camping. When it came to his sons, he was always there. As a husband, Mike was a devoted husband to Jo-Ann, for 57 years of marriage. He treated her like a queen, always putting her first, leaving her handwritten love notes, opening the car door for her, etc. Their unwavering love created a home full of love and happiness. 

Mike eventually became a grandfather and as expected, it was one of the greatest joys of his life. Mike and Jo-Ann moved back to Whittier to be closer to their family. As a father-in-law to Mirna and Liz, he loved them as his own. He was a doting grandfather to Kristin, Danielle, Christopher, Parker, Logan, Dillon, and Andrew, and great grandfather to Jack, Luke, and Nick. He was affectionately known as “Grandpa” to many family friends. His family was the center of his world, and he dedicated himself to creating a home filled with love, support, and memories. He made it a priority to be present for every achievement and sporting event of his grandchildren as they were his passion and purpose.

Mike’s commitment to his faith guided him throughout his life. Jo-Ann and Mike spent countless hours volunteering at St. Bruno’s Church, serving on various committees, and helping others in need. In 2019, Jo-Ann suddenly passed, and he was heartbroken. Less than a year later he was diagnosed with stage-4 Cancer. His battle with cancer, while still mourning the loss of his wife, was nothing short of inspiring. No matter how sick or tired, he fought every day for his family, never complaining and always optimistic. During this time, he was always there for others, showing up for his family, often prioritizing their needs over his own. His initial prognosis was 4-6 months, and he lived another 4 years never missing a grandchild’s sporting event, graduation, or birthday. He inspired all who knew him in his fight doing so with grace and determination, never wanting to burden others. 

As we mourn the loss of Mike, let us also celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. May we carry forward his values of integrity, compassion, and perseverance. Let us honor his memory by living each day with purpose, embracing our passions, and cherishing our loved ones. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will forever guide and inspire us. He left a legacy of love, selflessness, and unwavering determination. While we grieve his absence, we take solace in knowing he is reunited with his soulmate, Jo-Ann.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the extraordinary life of Michael Andrew Welsh on January 25th, 2025, at 1:00 PM at St. Bruno Catholic Church, in Whittier, CA. Let us gather to share stories, laughter, and tears as we honor his memory and find comfort in the loving support of one another.