Obituary

Wayne Eugene Welcher passed away peacefully with family by his side December 30, 2024 at Veterans Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa at the age of 94. Wayne was born on May 27, 1930, in Clarke County Hospital in Osceola, Iowa.

Wayne was the youngest of 4 children and he and his family lived in Osceola while his father would often work out of state to provide for his family. Wayne graduated from Clarke County high school and then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was honorably discharged after 4 years with the rank of Sergeant. Wayne was very proud of his service and often talked about his travel and the “off duty” adventures with his buddies. He married Phyllis Ann McVey and had 2 children, Susan Welcher Beaudette (John) and Jeffrey Welcher. Wayne was very proud to be Grandpa to Tony Jeffries Jr (Heidi), Ronnie Jeffries (Taylor), Katie Holsinger (Jason), Jeff Jr and Kylie Welcher, Great Grandpa (Papa) to Alec (Alicia), Taryn, Payton, Landon, Aubree, Harper, Gracelyn and Great Great Grandpa to Isabella Darlene.

Sister-in-law Doris Welcher, nieces Kathy, Marla, nephew John, and great nephew Doug. Extended family Tony Jeffries Sr (Stacy).

Wayne and Phyllis moved to Des Moines in 1966 and lived on the East side for over 58 years. He worked as a Heating and cooling installer and later into retirement would put ads in the local newspaper and lee town shopper for extra work to help those in need of repair. He was an avid Chicago Cubs, Iowa Hawkeyes and horse racing fan. He shot pool at local taverns which included Johns Tavern, Kellys Little Nipper to name a few and won trophies for his team’s performance.

Wayne is preceded in death by his wife Phyllis Ann, parents John and Mae Ella Welcher, brothers Kenneth and Jose (Lucille) and sister Delores (Darold) McCauley, and niece Deborah.

Wayne was a very private man and loved his family very much. He will be greatly missed but the memories he created and shared will live forever in our hearts.

The family will greet friends from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Iles Grandview Park Chapel, 3211 Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50317. A Military Committal Service will be held at 2:00pm, on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Iowa Veterans Cemetery, 34024 Veterans Memorial Drive, Van Meter, Iowa 50261. Honor Guard Details: U.S. Marine Corps & American Legion Post #403, Van Meter, Iowa.

Memorial contributions can be made directly to the family.

ILES GRANDVIEW PARK CHAPEL

To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Wayne Welcher, please visit our Tribute Store.