John A. Welch

John Anthony “Big John” Welch, of Antigo, formerly of Shawano, died Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022, at Eastview Medical and Rehabilitation Center. He was 66 years old. He was born July 3, 1956, in Antigo, a son of the late Floyd and Theresa (Koeppel) Welch.

John was a graduate of Antigo High School. He lived in Shawano for many years. He loved bowling and was a sports enthusiast. John enjoyed being social and will be remembered for his kindness and generosity.

Survivors include three sisters, Mary (Eugene “Blue”) Rogatzki, of Deerbrook, Susan (Larry) Waldvogel, of Antigo, and Carolyn (Joseph) Metko, of Antigo; three brothers, Lawrence (Shirlee) Welch, of Antigo, Edward (Ruth) Welch, of Merrill, and Andrew (Michelle) Welch, of Bowler; many nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Mary Beth Pecore, of Shawano.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Daniel, Thomas and Walter.

A funeral Mass will be held Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Holy Family Catholic Church in Phlox with the Rev. Charles Hoffmann officiating. Burial will take place in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 24, from 4-7 p.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home in Antigo and on Friday from 10-11 a.m. at the church. A parish wake service will be held Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

Online condolences at www.bradleyfh.com.