Charles Tony Welch, aged 85, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024. Born on January 16, 1938, in Weatherford, Texas, he was the beloved son of Burl and Eloise Welch. Charles graduated from Weatherford High School in 1956. On August 24, 1957, he married the love of his life, Patricia Jo DeGraffenreid, in Anadarko, OK. Together, Charles and Pat raised four sons: Tony, Troy, Rusty, and Cris. Their love and dedication to their family were evident in the strong bonds they nurtured. Today, Charles has reunited with Pat at their Lord's side.

Charles dedicated 26 years of his life to the Oklahoma City Fire Department, serving on the Green shift. He began his journey in 1960, spending many years at Station #14 making Captain and later transferred to Station #30, where he was Captain and ride-out Chief. Charles concluded his service at Station #32 in Surrey Hills in 1986. His time in the fire department brought him immense pride, and he cherished the relationships he built with his fellow firefighters. Even after retirement, Charles remained grateful for the continued camaraderie and support from his firefighting family.

In addition to being a firefighter, Charles worked in construction doing everything from framing to trim carpentry. In 1978, with the assistance of many fellow firefighters and their families, he built his family's home in Yukon. He also worked as an independent insurance adjustor and after retiring, traveled all over the United States assessing storm and catastrophe damage claims.

Charles and Pat enjoyed breeding, raising and showing several different breeds of dogs. Over the years, Charles and Pat raised dalmatians, whippets and Chinese Cresteds. They made many lifelong friends during their involvement in dog related clubs including the Canadian Valley Kennel Club, Oklahoma Ring Stewards Club, and Central Oklahoma Toy Club.

First and foremost, Charles was a loving and devoted husband, father, father-in-law, affectionately known by his grandchildren as Papa Charlie, Grandpa, and G-Pa. He was always available to lend a helping hand, whether it involved constructing a retaining wall, embarking on an unplanned 8-hour journey, or grilling burgers for his daughter-in-law's family during a memorial service for her father. Charles enjoyed supporting his children and grandchildren and attending a wide array of events including sporting competitions, dance recitals, Boy Scout gatherings, graduations, and hunting trips.

Charles loved hunting for treasures at auctions and shooting guns and bows & arrows. Unless facing hailstorms or tornadoes, Charles could be found fishing, hunting, or tending to his property using his tractor or zero-turn mower. Charles's warm and charming personality forged friendships wherever he ventured. No matter how tough times were, Charles could always find the bright side.

Charles Welch will be remembered for his profound love for his family, unwavering commitment to his loved ones, dedication to public service, his sharp wit, an unyielding passion for all things outdoors and the countless lives he touched and enriched. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories. May his soul rest in eternal peace with Pat again.

Charles Welch was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Jo, his parents, Burl and Eloise Sosbee Welch, and his brother, Burl Steven "Chuck" Welch.

He is survived by his loving sons and daughters (in-law): Tony Wayne Welch, Troy William Welch and Lana, Ruston Charles Welch and Becky, and Criston Michael Welch and Kerry. Charles also leaves behind a cherished legacy through his eight grandchildren: Tony Jr. and his wife Isabel, Bret and his partner Tasha, Mitchell and his wife Carly, Amanda and her husband Brendan Robinson, Andrew and his wife Jessica, Abigail, Jordan and his wife Brooke, and Conner. Additionally, he was blessed with three great-grandchildren: Victoria and Alexander Welch, and Elliot Robinson. Charles will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

A graveside memorial service to honor Charles Welch's life will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 19, 2024, at Resthaven Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Charles' name to the American Cancer Society.

Following the service, friends and family are invited to enjoy warm temperatures and fellowship in the Family Center of Resthaven Funeral Home, located at the Northeast corner of the cemetery.