Richard Emery Welch

Richard Emery Welch passed away on December 5, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in Perry and raised in Minburn, Iowa, Richard grew up with a strong work ethic, a big personality, and a heart that found joy in the simplest things: family, friends, good conversation, and a well-timed joke.

On June 17, 1967, Richard married the love of his life, Julie. Their partnership of more than five decades was filled with devotion, humor, and a shared commitment to raising their family. Together they built a life rooted in love and community.

Richard and Julie have three children, Dirk lives in Wichita Falls, Texas, with his wife, Hilary, and their son, Cameron. Todd lives in West Des Moines with his wife, Hollie, and their four children, Austin, Abbie, Olivia, and Sophia. Amanda lives in West Des Moines and shares her life with John Tabler, who resides in Florida. Richard was incredibly proud of each of his children and grandchildren and loved supporting them in every chapter of their lives. He was heavily involved in their upbringing and coached sports like flag football, baseball, basketball, and soccer; never missing an opportunity to cheer them on and celebrated their milestones with unmistakable enthusiasm.

Richard spent more than 40 years at Monarch Cement of Iowa LLC, beginning as a shipping clerk and ultimately retiring as President of the Des Moines Subsidiary. His career reflected his dedication, leadership, and unwavering work ethic.

Outside of work, his days were filled with the things he loved most. Richard and Julie frequently traveled, with trips to Texas, cruises, and visits to other countries. Together they spend many winter months in warmer states, often calling their Iowa family to let them know how nice the weather was. As a lifelong bowler, he proudly competed in Nationals for 45 years, bowled in city and state tournaments, and participated in leagues such as mixed doubles and the men’s league. He was active for decades on the Greater Des Moines Bowling Association board, serving as President from 2012 – 2016 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015.

Richard enjoyed spending time outdoors golfing, going for walks, mowing the yard, sitting on the deck, and feedings the squirrels and birds. Most mornings began with a cup of coffee and reading the newspaper, and he could always be counted on to show off his dance moves whenever music filled the room. He loved card games, poker nights, cowboy and Hallmark movies, and sports of all kinds. He especially enjoyed cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, with a soft spot for the University of Northern Iowa Panthers. Richard attended pretty much any UNI football game he could and frequented both college booths at the State Fair when he wasn’t volunteering at the United Methodist Church Fair Stand.

No matter which name he was lovingly known for: Dick, Homer, Grandpa, and Papa; everyone knew he could be ornery, loved joking around, and especially enjoyed it when someone gave it right back to him. Driven by independence and a stubborn streak, Richard was no stranger to challenges and goals. Easily distracted by a bit of people-watching and always ready to strike up a conversation, Richard connected effortlessly with everyone he met.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, John Emery and Myrtle Madonna (Wagaman); his sisters, Donna Jean Hammonds Patricia Calkins, Loretta Halling, Nancy Johnson, and Mary Consier; and his brothers, Bill Welch and John Welch.

Carrying his legacy forward are his wife, Julie; his children, Dirk (Hilary), Todd (Hollie), and Amanda (John); his cherished grandchildren, Cameron, Austin, Abbie, Olivia, and Sophia; and his sisters, Carolyn Kinney of Minburn, Iowa; Coleen Rodeffer of Ft. Pierce, Florida; and Connie Latshaw of Minburn, Iowa; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Richard’s life on January 9, 2026, at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway; 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines. Celebration of Life will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a prayer service beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Richard filled his life with love, laughter, and purpose and he gave all of it freely to the people he cared about. His wit, warmth, and good-natured orneriness made every room a little lighter. May we honor him by loving generously, living with joy, carrying forward his steady, quiet strength, sharing a well-timed joke, and never forgetting to give it right back – just the way he would’ve like it.

To allow a period of time for the family to grieve, please direct condolences to rjwelch2@msn.com.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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