In Memory of Richard Robert Welchons

Obituary

Richard Robert Welchons, age 97, of New Hartford, New York, passed away peacefully at home on February 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 23, 1928, in Indianapolis, Indiana, he was the son of Alvie and Harriet Welchons. Richard graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1946 and went on to earn a degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University in 1950.

On February 11, 1950, he married the love of his life, Dolores “Dorsey” Murray, in Indianapolis. Their marriage was a blessed union of 52 years, filled with devotion, partnership, and joy.

In 1960, Richard and Dorsey moved to New Hartford, New York, where they raised their seven children and built a wonderful life together. Richard began his career with General Electric, where he worked for 35 years until his retirement in 1993.

A devoted Catholic, Richard was a faithful parishioner of St. Patrick’s–St. Anthony’s Church in Chadwicks. He was also a proud member of the Skenandoa Club, Yahnundasis Golf Club, and the GE Elfun Society.

Richard enjoyed playing golf and tennis with Dorsey in their early years. Later in life, he developed a love for playing bridge with his “bridge buddies.” Each spring, he looked forward to taking his bright yellow Camaro out for a drive to McDonald’s to enjoy a large Diet Coke, a simple pleasure he cherished right up until his final day.

He is survived by his children: David (MaryEllen) Welchons; Tim Welchons; Diane (Phil) Mort; Nancy (Robert) Conway; Steven Welchons; and Peggy (Gary) Lonczak. He also leaves behind 19 beloved grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way and many nieces and nephews.

Richard was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Jack; his sister, Virginia; his wife, Dorsey; his daughter, Susan; his daughter-in-law, Kathie; and his grandsons, Stephen and Christopher.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Hospice, especially Alyssa and Lisa, for their compassionate care and support.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 26, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m at Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford. The funeral service will take place on Friday, February 27, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John’s the Evangelist Church at 66 Oxford Road in New Hartford. Interment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Whitesboro.

In lieu of flowers, friends may consider donations to Hospice or CABVI. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.