Merrill Virgil Welch

UPDATE

A Celebration of Life service and reception will be held at 11:00 AM, on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Council Grove United Methodist Church, 21 N Mission, Council Grove. The family welcomes all who knew and loved Merrill to join them in remembering and honoring his life.

Merrill “Bud” Virgil Welch Jr. of Council Grove, KS, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, November 17th, 2025. He was 84 years old. Born on December 12th, 1940 in McAllen, TX to Merrell Sr. and Lucy Welch, their second child. Bud was a veteran of the National Guard, member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, KSU alumni, beloved father, and small business owner. He lived for some years in Herington, KS. After an early retirement, he spent most of his later years in Council Grove at the family lakefront cabin. An independent thinker with an open mind, he enjoyed prospecting, following the stock market, traveling, caring for animals, and he loved his time in nature. He is survived by his sister Celia Sr.; his four sons Jason, Aric, Nathan, and Adam; his seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He will live on forever in our hearts and memories. We love you, Papa Welch.