Robert L. (Pete) Welch, 81, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2024, at Landmark Hospital in Columbia, Mo. Pete was born on June 9, 1943, in Fayette, Mo., where he attended both grade school and high school and later graduated from Central Methodist University, forming many lifelong friendships along the way. 

He married Cheryl Elizabeth on October 15, 1983, and they were blessed with two sons, Matthew Lee and Michael Edward. Pete was a devoted father and husband, taking great pride in his sons and their accomplishments. For over 46 years, Pete rarely missed a weekend at the farm, where he instilled in his sons a deep love for the outdoors. In 2012, Pete and Cheryl retired to their farm, where they built their dream home.

Pete was baptized at an early age at the First Christian Church in Fayette. After Michael was born, the family was baptized individually and as a family at Overland Park Christian Church in Overland Park, Kansas. 

Pete was blessed with the ‘gift of gab.’ He was able to strike up a conversation with a stranger on almost any topic. He was a proud Marine veteran who served at Camp Lejeune, where he first became involved in computers – an interest that launched his lifelong career in telecommunication sales. 

Pete’s smile, laughter, joking, and knowledge will be missed greatly by his family and friends. He was a true gentleman. Pete loved storytelling from his childhood, cars, and reminiscing about his college days. He especially loved planting trees. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing, and later in life, he became an enthusiastic supporter of Cheryl’s quilting hobby – perhaps even more than she did.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his sons, Matthew of Tampa, Fla., and Michael of Shawnee, Kan., along with his faithful furry companion, Maggie. He was preceded in death by Bob and Ivah Delle Welch and baby daughter, Ashlee Elizabeth.  

At his request, there will be no funeral services. Cremation was handled by Friemonth-Freese Funeral Home in Fayette, Mo.

The family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and healthcare professionals who provided exceptional care to Pete over the past three months.