About the Couple
Jim & Donna were married 6/25/71. They were encountered in 1986 and served as core coordinators, assistant exec couple, and finished as the candle couple for IA IL Board. In 2015, they were presented the Ham and Egg Award for their long term service and could always be counted on as a Prayer Couple for the Weekends.
For them, being part of the Iowa - Illinois UME Weekend in 1986 was an enrichment for their marriage; it provided them with valuable skills and a supportive community.
Over the years, they have been valuable contributors in various areas, and their dedication and insights have inspired many others in our community throughout their service.
Their story is a testament to the positive effects of engaging in programs aimed at enhancing marital relationships.
Involvement in United Marriage Encounter
CORE Coordinators
Assistant Executive Couple
Candle Couple for IA/IL Board
Ham & Eggs Award Recipients 2015
Prayer Couple
It is with a heavy heart that we remember Jim, who passed away in 2020. His presence is deeply missed, and the impact he had on the lives of those around him continues to resonate. May we cherish the memories we shared and honor his legacy with love and kindness.
Jim Welch Obituary:
Jim was born August 30, 1946 to Francis “Frank” and Josephine Welch in San Antonio, TX. He attended Concordia College in Austin, TX, earning his Associates Degree; he later earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Concordia College Nebraska. Jim met the love of his life, Donna Felzien, while teaching in Illinois; they later got married on June 25, 1971. While living in Wisconsin, he helped to organize and then became the president of the local Little League Chapter.
Jim was an active member at Trinity Lutheran Church; serving as an Elder for many years and as a teacher. Following retirement as a teacher, Jim began Welch Painting and Maintenance. He was the founder and president of the Glen Armil Neighborhood Association. Along with gardening, Jim loved railroads; he was the President of the Rock Island Technical Society, was a historian of the Rock Island Line, and loved model trains. He was also very involved with the United Marriage Encounter group. Most of all, Jim devoted his life to serving Christ as a teacher, elder, and through his various other positions that he held in the community. His lasting legacy is his family who loves Christ just as much as he did.