Jack D. Welch

Jack D. Welch, 95, of Frankfort, KS, died June 4, 2024, at the Community Hospital in Onaga, KS.

Visitation was Friday, June 7, from 4-8 p.m. at Padden Funeral Chapel.  The family received friends from 5-7 p.m.

A funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 8, at the Frankfort United Methodist Church. Pastor Serene Samuel officiated.

Burial was in the Frankfort Cemetery.

The honorary pallbearers were Michael B. Tilley, Joseph R. Tilley, Shawn P. Tilley, Matthew B. Droge, Michelle R. Fincham, Zachary A. Droge, Jackson D. Welch, Austin G. Welch and Owen C. Welch.

Jack Duane Welch was born to Inez Jane (Jackson) and Elmer Ray Welch on July 28, 1928 in Wichita. Kansas. He graduated from Hoisington High School in 1946. Jack married Jo Ann Detter on April 8, 1953, in Hoisington, Kansas.

In October 1953, the couple moved to Frankfort; where they went into business with his two brothers and their wives when they bought Manevall’s Locker. For 50 years they operated Welch Brothers Meat Co. and Locker.

Jack was devoted to JoAnn and their three children, Roxanne, Kim, and Bart. Together they enjoyed supporting their activities and encouraging their goals. Jack belonged to the Masonic Lodge and Rotary International. The Frankfort Rotarians recognized him with the Paul Harris Fellow Award for his commitment to service.

He and JoAnn enjoyed playing couple’s bridge. They were members of the United Methodist Church. Christmas Eve was a special time for him as he had the opportunity to visit families in the community bringing much joy to all. He believed in treating everyone with kindness and respect. Jack worked hard to provide for his family and instilled this work ethic in his children. He gave his children what they needed, but not always what they wanted; teaching them the value of hard work and responsibility.

In 2021, Jack donated funds in honor of the three Welch brothers and their wives to the Frankfort Ball Association. The donation provided for the construction of a new concession stand at the Tom Watson ball field. This generous contribution will benefit the community and youth for many years to come. 

Preceding him in death is his parents, Inez and Elmer; his wife, JoAnn; his siblings Delmoine Capps, Robert Welch, Betty Gruber, and James Welch. 

Survivors include his children; Roxanne Tilley (Bob) of Frankfort; Kim Droge (Dan) of Manhattan; and Bart Welch (Sheila) of Cave Creek, AZ; eight grandsons, one granddaughter, eight great-granddaughters, four great-grandsons; and numerous extended family and friends who loved and respected him. 

A memorial fund has been established and will be designated later.  Contributions may be sent to Padden Funeral Chapel, c/o Kinsley Mortuary, P.O. Box 147, Marysville, KS 66508.