Carl W. Welch

"The world is a little darker without his beautiful light and sweet, gentle soul."

Carl William Welch, 58 years old, of Sibley, Illinois, formerly of Greenup, Kentucky passed away peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2024 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.

Carl was born September 3, 1966 in Greenup, Kentucky to John William Welch and Janet Ellen Pretzlaff Welch. He was later baptized at St. John's Lutheran Church in Sibley.

He was finally at a stage in his life where he really wanted to meet that special woman, fall in love and get married. So, in August of 2007, after putting his profile on Yahoo Personal, he finally met Connie Wilson. They dated and got engaged. Then, in August 2008 (One year to the date they met) they were married on August 23, 2008 in Paxton. It truly was the most amazing 16 years ever.

Along with his wife Connie of Sibley, he is survived by a brother, Tilden Welch of Rankin; three sisters, Susan Welch and Teresa Bawa both of Poteet, Texas and Julie (Bruce) Renfro of Winchester, Ohio; two aunts, Jean Widman of Ransom, Illinois, Vera Peterson of Pontiac; four nieces, Sarah Renfro, Jenna Renfro, Rachel Welch, Danielle Day; one nephew, Garrett Welch; and several great nieces and nephews.

Carl was preceded in death by his loving parents and one sister, Brenda Welch of Gibson City.

Carl was a 1985 graduate of the Melvin-Sibley school system. He finally retired on July 1, 2024 from the Gibson City Middle School in Gibson City after 38 plus years of service as custodian for the school.

He truly loved his garden in which he was happy to share with his neighbors and friends.

Also, his favorite past-times were: flea markets, Bluegrass Festivals and fishing and hunting. Carl was a dedicated driver/volunteer along with his wife, Connie for Kentucky Mutts Animal Rescue in Corbin, Kentucky since June 2012. He also loved being home with his wife Connie and their beautiful beagles, Shiloh Winston (passed away 2023), Betsy Teagan (passed away 2024) and Dolly Rhae, who is still at home with Connie.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Sibley. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Burr Oaks Cancer Fund c/o Russell Tjarks, Sibley, Illinois or to Connie Welch to be used for the Sibley 4th of July Fireworks.

Carl was truly well loved by all and will be truly missed but never forgotten.