Frederick T. Welsch

Frederick T. Welsch, 90, of Sugarcreek, passed away peacefully at his home on October 21, 2026, exactly two years to the day after the passing of his beloved wife of 65 years, Beverly.

Fred Welsch lived a life filled with music, love, family, and service to his community. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, music educator, and friend, Fred leaves behind a beautiful legacy of melodies shared, lives touched, and memories cherished.

Born in Port Washington, on September 2, 1936, Fred was the son of the late Emerson and Blanche Edna (Hines) Welsch. He graduated from Port Washington High School before earning his bachelor's degree from Baldwin Wallace College and his master's degree from VanderCook Conservatory of Music in Chicago.

Fred's passion for music became his life's work. He began his teaching career at Killbuck Schools, later moving to Tuscarawas-Warwick High School. In 1966, he joined Garaway High School, where he served as band director, choir director, and elementary music teacher and he started the Garaway Band Preview when he started teaching at Garaway. Throughout his career, he inspired generations of students, instilling in them not only an appreciation for music but also the values of dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. Although he eventually retired as a music educator, Fred never truly retired from making music.

His musical talents and enthusiasm extended far beyond the classroom. He began performing with the Dover Concert Band, later renamed the Dominic Greco Band, and also played with the Kent State Concert Band. He enjoyed playing and teaching the alphorn, directed church choirs, and remained actively involved in the Garaway music community as the founder and a participant of the Garaway Alumni Band. Fred also organized music for the annual Swiss Festival, sharing his talents and helping preserve the musical traditions of the community he loved. Among his most treasured musical memories was participating in Tuba Christmas alongside his granddaughter, a special example of his joy in passing his love of music from one generation to the next.

Fred's dedication to his community extended beyond music. He served as a member of Sugarcreek Council, generously giving his time and talents to the place he called home.

When he wasn't making music, Fred found peace and happiness in the beauty of nature. An avid outdoorsman and nature lover, he delighted in walking through the woods, mushroom hunting, birdwatching, and tending to his flowers. He appreciated life's simple pleasures and found wonder in the world around him.

Above all, Fred's greatest love was his family, especially his beloved wife, Beverly Ann (Christopher) Welsch. The two were united in marriage on June 7, 1959, at the former Glenmont Evangelical and Reformed Church. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to love and devotion, spanning 65 years.. Fred adored Beverly, and the life they built was his greatest treasure. Together, they were blessed with three devoted daughters and nine grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable pride and joy to his life.

He was blessed with his daughters, Rev. Beth (Rev. Dave) Westphal of Tiffin and their children, Kristen Westphal, Aaron (Tomnica) Westphal and Sarah Westphal, Amy (Tim) Stephens of Waynesville and their children, Katie (Brian) Hukari, Ben Stephens and Josh Stephens, and Jennie (Greg) Arbogast of Dover and their children, Frankie, Leigh and Julianna Arbogast; his sister, Carol (Jim) Watercutter; and sister-in-law, Faye Welsch; his cat, Cat Hemingway; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Fred was preceded in passing by his brother, Robert Welsch; and brother-in-law, David Christopher.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 1 p.m. in Killbuck Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Fred’s memory may be directed to either the Alpine Hills Historical Museum, 106 W Main St, Sugarcreek, OH 44681, or the Tuscarawas Couty Historical Society, PO Box 462, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.