James Patrick Welsh

Jim Welsh left our world November 15, 2023 following a courageous 11 month battle with laryngeal cancer. Jim was born in Escanaba, Michigan on June 13, 1946 to James Gerard Welsh and Joyce Gibbs Welsh.Jim leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Janine, his children Timothy Patrick, Caitlin Lawson (Jonathan), Jon David, his grandson Daniel, his sister, Sarah Jane and brother-in-law David Walcoff.

Jim retired from the city of Columbus after 34 years as a health inspector. He loved his work primarily inspecting restaurants. After he retired it wasn’t unusual for him to get a call from a restaurant owner asking his advice. His favorite pastime was cooking, and his smoked ribs were legendary. You couldn’t ask for the recipe for his secret sauce though because it was never made the same way twice. He was happiest feeding family and friends. 

An avid reader, Jim could be counted on for lively conversations ranging from history to current events to all sporting events. He eschewed all technology, never owned a cell phone, and insisted on hard copy subscriptions to newspapers and magazines and bills. He was the true definition of a Luddite.

Proud of his Irish roots, Jim had the gift of gab. He would strike up a conversation with anyone willing to talk. One of the highlights of his life was a trip to Ireland with his sons. While Jon and Tim hiked around the Aran Islands, Jim sat on a bench talking with a local gentleman for 2 ½ hours they entertained each other.

Special thanks to his cousins, Dave and Mary Tomlinson, and his brother-in-law Joe Moyer (Jan Hood), who made the trek from Michigan to lift Jim’s spirits in his final weeks. He was a kind soul, a gentle soul, who didn’t need much to be content. Although we know his suffering is over, and he has been healed by the grace of God, we will miss him deeply.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like, please consider a charitable donation to the charity of your choosing. Jim’s favorites were Tunnel to Towers and Food For the Poor.

A memorial service will be held on December 3, 2023 at 2 pm followed by a reception at Egan Ryan Funeral Home, 4661 Kenny Rd, Columbus OH 43220.

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