Michael James Welch
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On the morning of February 5, 2022, Michael "Mike" James Welch passed peacefully at the age of 68 in his home in Blairsville, GA. Michael is survived by his mother Patricia Welch, love of his life wife Mary Welch, and his four daughters Tifni, Amy, Laura, and Sarah. He has 6 "apple of his eye" grandchildren: Xander, Raegan, Carter, Conan, River, Miles and one more on the way that he was able to bless before his departure. Four brothers: Paul, John, Willie, Thomas and one sister, Colleen Welch.
He was born to Edsel and Patricia Welch in upstate New York in 1953, growing up on a farm as the oldest of all the children he was a role model and mentor from the very start. He moved to Deland, Florida and spent most of his adult life there where he enjoyed camping, fishing and boating on the St. John's River. An avid naturalist, he loved his Florida waterways but always pined to go back to the mountains where he could hike and find peace in the forests. He also volunteered at Community Outreach Services in DeLand for almost 20 years, teaching the spirituality of the 12 Step to the clients there. At the age of 65 he reached a personal goal of ascending to the top of Angel's Landing, in Zion National Park. Following his love of the mountains he began making his dream home in Blairsville, GA where he lived out the rest of his days working in his woodshop and entertaining his family and friends on Lake Nottely and surrounding areas. Mike loved music and played all sorts of instruments, his guitar being his first love but learning Mandolin and Ukulele, and anything that brought the harmony into the household would always excite him.
Mike was a hardworking, dedicated, and compassionate family man that befriended all that knew him no matter where he went. Professionally, he made huge impacts working as the U.S. Director of Long-Term Disaster Recovery at Habitat for Humanity International. His coworkers felt the grace and good humor, listening and caring skills, and love of sharing his experience that came naturally to him. His most prized accomplishments were the Carter projects working alongside former President Jimmy Carter, directing the Home Builder's Blitz, and his teaching of creativity and construction practices. There was always a shine in his eyes and smile on his face when someone "got it".
A life of service to all that crossed his path, having believed strongly in diversity and equity, was what he truly valued most and anyone that knew him was left with that wisdom and appreciation. He lived his life with a strong sense of faith and advocacy for sobriety and soulful purpose.
He will be missed by many who are forever full of gratitude to have known him.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in his name to either the U.S. Office of Habitat for Humanity International or St. William Catholic Church, Murphy, N.C.
Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome.com