DALLAS, Texas — Donald F. Welker, 77, a former resident of Mount Vernon and Grove City, Pa, passed away in Dallas, Texas, on April 13, 2006.
He was a graduate of St. Vincent de Paul High School, and a faithful volunteer to the school and church. He was the third generation of his family to have retired from Cooper Industries, having worked there 34 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran, member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Knights of Columbus and Elks Club.
In his youth he earned his Boy Scout Life Badge, and years later used those skills to save the lives of at least four people. The first accident involved saving his own son from drowning, and led his family to the Community Pool Learn to Swim and competitive swimming programs. He was instrumental in the development and leadership of the Mount Vernon High School and recreational competitive swimming programs, as well as officiating at many Kenyon College meets. In his spare time he attended nearly every AAU, YMCA and college meet of his children for more than 25 years, and water-skied on non-swimming days until the sun went down.
Following retirement he moved to the Dallas area and was an active member of St. Ann Parish, Coppell. He loved his family, was loyal to his friends, and served his community, all with dedicated spirit.
He is survived by his partner of 57 years, Henrietta Welker; five children, Kathryn (Lawrence) Moser, Charles (Martha) Welker, Theresa (John) Kirkpatrick, Alex (Kim) Welker, Mark (Elizabeth) Welker; and 12 grandchildren, Jason, Bridget, Genevieve and Mark Moser, Ken and David Welker, Katherine and John Kirkpatrick, Alissa and Emily Welker, John and Anne Welker.
A memorial service was held in Coppell, Texas, on April 17. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Ann Catholic Church Prayer Garden Fund, 180 Samuel Blvd., Coppell, TX 75019.