Lt. Colonel William Guild Welch

August 1, 1950 – August 31, 2024

With aching hearts we share that Bill Welch left this world on August 31, 2024. “Pops,” as most referred to him, was born on August 1, 1950 in New Hampshire to Franklin and Gertrude Welch.

With his father serving in the Army Reserves, Bill got a taste for travel and transition at an early age, spending his formative years in West Chester, PA; Costa Mesa, CA; and Atlanta, GA. His love for adventure was apparent early on and he was always eager to convince his younger sister, Merri, to join him on his many childhood escapades.  As a member of the Boy Scouts of America, Bill earned his Eagle Scout; and could be found on every field or court, in high school, lettering “All-Around.”

Upon graduating high school and just before his 18^th birthday, Bill enrolled at the US Military Academy at West Point.  He graduated in 1972 as the Vietnam War was ending and went on to serve 20 honorable years before retiring as a Lt. Colonel to Yorktown VA.  He lived and worked stateside as well as in Germany, Japan, and numerous other top-secret expeditions.  Pops took his family with him on most adventures where the Army instructed, always taking advantage of an opportunity to visit a historic castle, hike Mt. Fuji, explore a volcano, or attend a sporting event.  Pops never let the unknown limit him; it only increased his urge for adventure.

Bill was a decorated war veteran earning the highest honors for his leadership and decision-making skills.  He was often found at war tables with high-ranking Generals deciding the next phase of war planning.  His care and precision at work carried over at home to the attention given to his family, helping the boys with homework or playing catch.

Once settled in retirement, Bill went on to explore a new business opportunity after meeting the love of his life, Gail Wolpin.  Bill and Gail spent the last 30+ years running the Phoebus Auction Gallery and creating new adventures together.  They held countless auctions, “recycling the finest,” while traveling to find the most rare and unique things to share with their Phoebus fans.  Bill and Gail were inseparable and their support of each other was immeasurable.

While at first glance, his tall, broad-shouldered figure might intimidate; but he was a gentle giant.  Pops had an uncanny ability to always make everyone he met feel special and heard.  The many miles on his car were a testament to how he lived his life – always showing up for any event, big or small.  He was there for all the good and especially so for the tough times.  Pops was the one you could count on no matter what or where, to pick you up or praise you.

Bill leaves behind his two adored sons, Jason (Kim) and Travis Welch; grandchildren Garrett, Davis, and Brooklynn Wren Welch; sister, Merri Welch; several nieces and nephews; beloved partner Gail Wolpin; her children and grandchildren.

Pops will be missed every day, but he leaves the legacy of living like each day is your last, loving everyone, and not being afraid to laugh at yourself.

Please join family and friends in celebrating the incredible life of Pops and sharing your favorite stories on Nov. 17, 2024 at the First Colony Club House. 125 Pasbehegh Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23185 at 2 pm