Thomas J. Welch, age 62, passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at his home in Stanwood. He was born February 5, 1960 in Stanwood, the son of Cecil and Mary (Rockwell) Welch. Tom was employed for many years as a foundry worker, melting metal and creating molds at Sparta Foundry and Noam Corporation. He also worked at Stanwood Hospital as the head of maintenance for several years. In 1979, Tom was picked up hitchhiking to a Morley-Stanwood basketball game by his soon to be wife, Belinda and they have been together ever since. He would always say, "Im still wondering when that basketball game is going to get over." Tom enjoyed fishing, camping with family and friends, and attending bluegrass festivals. He had a wonderful sense of humor that he shared with everyone. As soon as his grandchildren learned to talk, he would teach them that he and Belinda were "Grandma and Grandpa Hooligan." Tom loved to spend time with his family and grandchildren. He will be missed by many. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years Belinda of Stanwood; daughter, Ilsa (Jeramie Shanley) Dean of Texas; grandchildren, Alexandria (Jason) Niebrzydowski, Kaleb Lewis, Logan Lewis, Liam Dean; great-granddaughter, Delilah Niebrzydowski; siblings, Sue Tribe, Bob Welch; son-in-law, Mark Dean; sister-in-law, Della Welch; mother-in-law, Marianne Spedoski; special friend, Scott Hendrick; many nieces, nephews, friends; and cherished dog, Sophia. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Sandra, Billy, Michael, and Kenneth Welch; and father-in-law, Jack Spedoski. Memorial contributions may be made in Toms name to Animal Rescue Coalition, 18400 220th Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307 A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2023. Please leave a memory, picture, and condolence at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com