Edward Robert Welch, affectionately known as Big Eddie, lived a rich and full life to the remarkable age of 102. He was born in Portland, OR to Edward Burton McGovern and Juliet Ablan. Sadly, his mother died five weeks later and he was lovingly adopted by Charles and Jean Welch and raised in Seattle, WA. Ed attended St. George Grade School, O'Dea High School, and graduated from Seattle University in 1948. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. While attending Seattle University, Ed met his future wife Mary Adair d'Aubuchon, whom he married in 1948. Together they raised 12 children in their Capitol Hill home where they lived for more than 70 years. They were devoted members of St. Joseph Parish and all their children attended school there. Ed joined the Seattle Fire Department in 1952, serving the city until his retirement in 1977. He later worked for many years at the State liquor stores on Broadway and Magnolia. Ed was a lifelong loyal fan of the O'Dea Fighting Irish and could be seen in the stands cheering on his almamater. He was also an avid bowler for the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed both of these pastimes well into his 90s. Ed will be remembered for his warm smile, sense of humor, charming personality, and love of a good cigar. In his true form, one of his favorite sayings was, "You'll get your reward in heaven!" Ed is preceded in death by his loving wife Mary Adair, infant son Charles, youngest daughter Sheila and her husband Jim Ayers, and grandson Nathan Lile. He is lovingly remembered by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family. We love and miss you Big Eddie! A funeral will be held at 10:30 AM on March 26th at St. Joseph Church,732 18th Avenue East in Seattle, followed by a reception