Charles Coburn Welch

Charles Coburn Welch, 76, of Ladson, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on July 15, 2026. He was born on June 13, 1950, in Reading, Massachusetts, to the late Donald E. Welch and Bettina T. Welch (Papagno).

After graduating from Reading High School, Chuck enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1969. It was there that he developed a passion for diesel engines, which sparked his lifelong love of working as a mechanic. He went on to spend his career repairing diesel engines, eventually owning and operating two successful transmission shops.

On October 8, 1978, he married Deborah Jane Carlson, with whom he shared 47 wonderful years of marriage until her passing on December 4, 2025.

More than anything, Chuck loved participating in hot rod benefit runs, watching boxing, and cheering on the Patriots and Red Sox.

He will always be remembered for his quick wit, eclectic taste in music, and countless hours spent tinkering in the garage with his 1936 Dodge coupe.

He is survived by his daughter, Kelly Marie Welch, and son, Kevin Michael Welch, both of North Charleston, South Carolina; his sisters, Donna Campbell (Kenny) of Melrose, Massachusetts, Bettina "Betsy" Welch of Peabody, Massachusetts, and Lisa Anino (Keith) of Billerica, Massachusetts; his brothers, Donald E. Welch Jr. (Paula) of Malden, Massachusetts, and Peter Welch of Attleboro, Massachusetts; his brother-in-law, Tim Dolan of Westminster, Massachusetts; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deborah Jane Welch (Carlson); his sister, Mary Dolan; and his brothers, John and Steven Welch.

Because Chuck and Deb passed away so close together, a joint Celebration of Life will be held later in the fall of 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to organizations supporting Huntington's disease, juvenile diabetes, or lung cancer research.