CLINTON — John Earl Welch, 81, of Clinton, passed away at 9:12 a.m. on February 18, 2021, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.

Services will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at the First Christian Church, Clinton, with Pastor Stephen Bradd officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery, Clinton. Visitation will be held from 5–7 p.m. on Monday, February 22, 2021, at the First Christian Church, Clinton.  Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to the Church of Christ, Clinton.

John was born on October 18, 1939, at the family home near Birkbeck, the son of Nathan and Mary Ona (Spencer) Welch. He married Nita K. Barnhill on June 6, 1959, in Clinton.

Survivors include his wife, Nita K. Welch, Clinton; children,  John “Mike” (Deb) Welch, Decatur; Jeff (Patty) Welch, Clinton; Susan (Tony Brennan) Welch, Clinton; and Steve (Sherri) Welch, Waynesville; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter; and siblings, Merle Welch, Clinton, and Mabel Rich, Minooka, Ill.

John was preceded in death by his parents, three  sisters and two brothers.

John retired after 30 years of service at Caterpillar Tractor.  After retirement, he worked at the elevator in Birkbeck.  John enjoyed bowling and fishing, and he loved his dog, Tinker.  He was most proud of the hard work ethic he instilled in his children.  Spending time with his family and family dinners was what John enjoyed most of all.  He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com