Otis Bart Welch Jr.

Otis Bart Welch Jr., 74, of Sabula, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, following a brief illness.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Law Jones Funeral Home in Preston, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at the funeral home.

Otis was born on September 27, 1951, in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Otis Bart Welch Sr. and Minnie Elberta (Beulow) Welch. He grew up in Camanche and graduated from Camanche High School with the Class of 1970. On May 18, 1974, he married the love of his life, Susan Kay Kuhl. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work, raising two sons and sharing more than fifty years together. Susan's passing on April 18, 2026, left an emptiness in his life, and he missed her dearly every day.

Otis devoted 38 years of his career to the railroad, primarily as a carman welder, though he learned many other aspects of the trade along the way. He began with the Chicago & North Western Railway and later worked for several railroads, including Union Pacific and Canadian Pacific. During periods of railroad layoffs, he put his welding talents to work for local industries, always doing whatever was needed to provide for his family. 

He found his greatest enjoyment outdoors. Hunting, fishing, trapping, camping with his sons, and spending time on the water were among his favorite pastimes. He also enjoyed bowling and traveling with Susan and his family. Otis was known as someone who could fix just about anything. With a welder or a toolbox in his hands, there was not much he could not figure out.

More than anything else, Otis loved his family. He was a humble and modest man who never sought to be the center of attention, but quietly showed his love through his actions. He was an incredibly proud and supportive father and grandfather, never missing an opportunity to encourage his family or celebrate their accomplishments.

He is lovingly survived by his two sons, Ryan Leon (Andrea) Welch of Clinton and Shane Welch of Sabula; four grandchildren, Otis Welch, Shane (Finley) Welch, Justis Welch, and Tayla Welch; along with extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Kay Welch; his father, Otis Bart Welch Sr.; his mother, Minnie Elberta (Beulow) Welch; and an infant sister.