Porter Shurr "Pete" Welch, Jr.

Porter Shurr “Pete” Welch, Jr., 78, of Jackson Township, passed away on September 16, 2021.

Born February 23, 1943, in Lakewood, Ohio, to the late Porter Shurr Welch, Sr. and Virginia Mae (Stockdale) Welch, Pete graduated from Massillon Washington High School in 1961.  He went on to study chemistry, initially at Case Institute of Technology, ultimately graduating from Kent State University in 1971.

While in college, Pete began his career in packaging, working summers at Central States Can Co. During his many years at CSC, he transitioned from research and development to sales. In 1993, Crown Cork & Seal purchased CSC and in that same year, Phoenix Packaging was incorporated, led by seven partners - Pete and six others from CSC. Although the partners sold Phoenix in 2001, Pete did not retire for another 14 years because of his passion for the industry and his relationships with his customers.

Pete enjoyed traveling the world, running, vintage cars, and spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoyed his “Bible Study” group.

On November 2, 1968, Pete and Nancy Ann (Ross) Welch were married at St. Mary’s Church in Massillon.  Nancy survives together with their children, son, Porter R. “Chip” (Molly) Welch, daughter, Tiffany W. (Tim) Schwendeman, and four grandchildren – Abigail and Addison Welch and Jack and Kate Schwendeman.

All services will be private.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon.  If you would like to pay tribute to Pete’s life, offer to help a friend in need or consider a donation to one of the following:  The Boys & Girls Club of Massillon, The Camp Tuscazoar Foundation, Inc., Washington High School Alumni Association or The Wilderness Center. 

Your memories and condolences are always welcome and may be added to our on-line guestbook at www.atkinsonfeucht.com.

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