Jerry Robert Welton

Jerry Robert Welton, age 74 of Ludington, died peacefully on February 14, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 25, 1942 in Toledo, OH. Jerry lived in Luna Pier, MI until his retirement in 2006. He was the son of the late Robert and Virginia (Hartzel) Welton. He married Sharon (Kinsey) Welton in 1961.
Jerry was a man that wore many hats. After serving in the Army from 1966 to 1968, Jerry later became Director of Transportation, Buildings and Grounds at Mason Consolidated Schools in Erie, MI. He was a fireman for the Luna Pier Volunteer Fire Department for 46 years while holding the position of chief for 25 of those years. Jerry also held the title of Mayor of Luna Pier for 11 years and held a seat on the City Council in the 1970’s and 80’s. He also turned his love of fishing into a charter fishing business. After retiring, Jerry and his wife, Sharon moved to Ludington to be close to family. Not one to remain idle, Jerry quickly landed a job with the City of Ludington as a code enforcement officer. Jerry volunteered his time to countless important causes as well. Many of the locals knew Jerry simply as the original “Captain” of Ludington’s famous Baby Badger. Jerry was also a faithful member and former Council President of Emanuel Lutheran Church.
In his spare time, Jerry loved fishing, hunting, watching NASCAR and football, and spending time with his grandchildren who have many great memories of quad riding with Grampy.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon Kinsey-Welton; his three children, Robert Kinsey (Laura) Welton of Knoxville, TN, Tracey Lynn (Richard) Laaksonen of Ludington and Shelly Lynn (Kraig) Anderson of Ludington; grandchildren, Tye and Brooke Welton, Kaydence and Kaleb Laaksonen and Jordyn and Chase Anderson. He is also survived by his brother Ken (Hilda) Welton; sister-in-law, Sara Welton; sister-in-law, Linda Riley; brother-in-law Larry (Karon) Kinsey; brother-in-law, Garry (Anita) Kinsey; and many nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia (Hartzel) Welton; brother, Richard Welton, niece, Holly (Welton) Ashley; and brother-in-law, Frank Riley.
A memorial service officiated by Pastor Mick Shriver will be held at 4:00PM on Saturday February 25, at Emanuel Lutheran Church located at 501 E. Danaher in Ludington. Visitation will begin at 3:00PM. The service will be followed by food and fellowship.
Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church at 501 E. Danaher, Ludington, MI 49431 and/or Luna Pier Volunteer Fire Department, 4357 Buckeye Street, Luna Pier, MI 48157.
Please feel free to share a memory or photo with the family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Ludington.

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