Lester Donald Welch, 93, a lifelong resident of North Reading, passed peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, February 19, 2026.  Born on November 18, 1932 in North Reading, MA to Lester and Alma (Eisenhaure) Welch.  He attended schools in North Reading and Reading, MA and served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict.

He was a devoted husband who was married to the love of his life, Ruthie, for 68 years before her passing in January 2023.  He was the most loving and caring Father, Brother, Uncle, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather.  His family was blessed to have him by our sides for all these years.   He was always willing to help others in any way he could and would welcome everyone into his heart and home with open arms.  His smile and laugh were infectious and will always be in our memories.

Donald was an accomplished carpenter who ran his own business for years in partnership with his brother Edward and long-time friend Bud.  He was amazing at his craft, extremely detailed oriented and a perfectionist.  He was always hard working and provided for his family ensuring stability and did it with honor.

His passions included spending time with his brother and best friend, Howard, along with his son Brad and nephew Mark at their hunting camp in West Milan, NH.  The family cottage in West Newfield, ME on Balch Lake was definitely a place of peace which brought him a tremendous amount of joy and happiness, making a lot of fantastic memories.  He loved boating and relaxing on the dock with family and friends.  Donald was constantly active, loved being outdoors and always busy with a project.

He is survived by his son, Bradford Welch and wife Cheryl of Salem, NH; daughter Sheila Welch-Miller and husband Don of Townsend, MA; and brother Howard Welch of Mont Vernon, NH; eight cherished grandchildren: Stephen, Alycia, Shane, Bradford and Andrew Welch; Nicole Welch-Guilfu and husband Benny; Arielle Welch-Williams, and Amber Eaton; six great grandchildren; Eliana, Sierra, Kip, Holly, Preston, and Malyiah; along with many loved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Ruthie, son Stephen, daughter Darlene, and brother Edward.

Donald leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will never be forgotten.  The entire family is absolutely heartbroken left with a huge whole in our lives.  His loved ones find strength knowing Donald is no longer suffering, and has been reunited with his wife Ruthie, children Stephen and Darlene along with other family members in heaven.

His funeral will be held on Friday, February 27 at 11:00 AM, at the Trinity Evangelical Church, 105 Haverhill Street, North Reading. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Care Dimensions, 75 Sylvan St., Danvers, MA 01923.

www.croswellfuneralhome.com