Richard "Dick" Welch

Richard (“Dick”) Welch, 82, of Benton, AR, formerly of Superior, WI passed away on November 27, 2021, after a brief illness, with family by his side.

He was born March 20, 1939, in Duluth, MN to Arthur and Katherine (Wellington) Welch.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Deanna (Waltenburg) Welch; son Tim Welch and wife Kim of Henderson, NV; son Jim Welch and wife Karen of Alexander, AR; daughter Cindy Hauser and husband Wes of North Richland Hills, TX; daughter Missy Chamblee and husband Jeff of Grenada, MS; ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents, his sister Marion May, his sister Nancy Millotte, and one granddaughter Rebecca Welch.

Dick was a devoted Christian, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend and will be forever in the hearts of his loved ones.

In his working years, Dick was a respected businessman who helped to lead operations at several large wood products companies in various U.S. cities and Canada.  In retirement, he was a dedicated servant to his family, community, and church.  At First United Methodist of Benton, he served on multiple committees, sang in the choir, and volunteered at CJCOHN in Benton.  Dick was an active member and officer in the Lions Club of Benton.  He loved to support the annual Lions Club fundraiser by selling and delivering pecans to many businesses and individuals across the Saline County area.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-3:00 PM, with memorial service following at 3:00 pm on Friday, December 3, 2021, at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 North Market Street, Benton. The services will be officiated by First United Methodist’s Senior Pastor Keith Dodson.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Richard Welch to the music ministry of First United Methodist Church, 200 North Market Street, Benton, AR, 72015.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.