Arthur “Bud” Welker, 91, of St.Marys, OH died 11:20 a.m. Friday March 13, 2009 at St.Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, OH.

He was born October 11, 1917 in Hillsdale, MI to Joseph & Ethel (Vance) Welker.

On March 15, 1947, he married Loa Brookhart, who survives.

He is also survived by:

son, Jim (Sue) Welker of Celina, OH

daughter, Becky (Jerry) Steinke of Waynesfield, OH

4 grandsons; 7 great-grandsons; & 2 great-granddaughters

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Walter Welker, sisters: Geraldine Gensler and Margaret Taylor

He was a veteran of the United States Army, having served as a sergeant during World War II.

He retired from the Stamco Corp. in New Bremen, where he worked as a hydrotel operator.

He was a member of the Faith Alliance Church in New Bremen for nearly 60 years.

Mr. Welker could often be seen enjoying the day sitting in the swing on the front porch of his home, exchanging friendly waves with passersby.

Services are scheduled 11:00 a.m. Wednesday March 18, 2009 at the Miller - Long & Folk Funeral Home (High Street Chapel) in St.Marys, with Pastor Thomas Sager, officiating. A luncheon will follow at the fellowship hall of the church in New Bremen.

Private family burial will take place at a later date.

Visitation 4 - 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Auglaize Co. Council on Aging in St.Marys.