Gilbert Paul “Chief” Welch
Gilbert Paul Welch, age 90; former Fire Chief and long-time resident of LaGrange Park; beloved husband of Jacqueline (nee Johnson) and the late Betty (nee Bluder); loving father of Kathy (Richard) Lesatz and Bonnie (James) Ewing; cherished grandfather of five; dear great-grandfather of many; fond brother of Melba (Hap) Chastain and the late Ikey (late Beulah) Welch; uncle, mentor, and friend of many. Memorial visitation Wednesday, December 23 from 3pm until time of service, 7pm at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the LaGrange Park Fire Department Foundation at 447 N. Catherine Ave., LaGrange Park, IL 60526. Funeral Info: 708-352-6500
Our thoughts and prayers to you all at this most difficult time of you life.
So very sorry for the loss of a good man. Gil was one of the good guys. Fair, honest, loyal, and one of the strongest guys I ever knew. It was an honor serving with him at the LPFD.
A wonderful, kind human being who made a lot of people, and his community, better.
Bonnie, I am so sorry for your loss!!! My thoughts and prayers are with you all!!!
Our thoughts are with all who knew and loved this man (Gil)….truly sorry for your loss.
Gil you will be missed.
Always a pleasure to be around.
Handshake like a steel vise.
Rest in peace old friend.
never met a straighter person. Gentleman, honest, loyal always ready to lend a hand. Sooo many times I turned to him in times of need. Never refused to help. One of the nicest men I was glad and proud to call my friend. Loved you Gil. Bless you Jackie at this sad time.
All our love
John and Candy
RIP Chief. You were well respected and a good friend to my dad, Frank Smit. Prayers go out to the family.
Bonnie, We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers and our love to all.
RIP Mr. Welch…. fond memories when my Dad, Dave Rosol, was on the fire department with you. The fireman family parties, coming up to the fire house, the various stories told about fires that you all put out and always a kind hello. You were also a carpenter and did a lot of work at our house. I think my dad even worked for you for a little while when he was on strike with the phone company. Your family was a big part of our life. Prayers and our love to all your family.
We are sorry for your loss and praying for your family during this time.
Gil was a very good friend to my father Frank. I always admired and respected Gil, and I’m sorry that I could not make the service. His dedication to the village of LaGrange Park, and to the Fire Service was admirable. I’m proud to have known him.