Richard “Rick” Welker, of Queen Creek and formerly of the Gila Valley, passed from this life early Saturday morning, July 13, 2024, at his residence with his sweetheart of 54 years, Linda, at his side. He was 73.
Rick was born in Safford, Arizona, where he met Linda when they were just in 7th grade and immediately fell in love with her. They later married and raised their family in Safford. He loved the Gila Valley and the many lifelong friends he had there. He instilled his love for small town life and old-fashioned values in all of his children.
After their children left home, Linda and Rick moved to Queen Creek with their daughter, Kristi, to be closer to family. Rick once again found himself surrounded by a community of family and friends that he quickly grew to love.
He is survived by: his wife, Linda; his children, Kristi Welker, Todd Welker (Amber), Kami Cortez (Steve), and Scott Welker (Amy); his grandchildren, Ashton, Kye, Lola, Blake, Addi, Kaiden, Baylee, Madyson, and Carson; a soon to be born great-granddaughter named Oakley; and his siblings, Dan Welker and Joyce Johnson. Rick was also a beloved uncle to several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by: his parents, Don and Phyllis Welker; by his sister, Dian Moore; and by his brother, Bob Welker.
Rick was known for his deep faith, disarming humility, unwavering kindness, and a life of quiet service. He fulfilled several callings for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he was, perhaps, most fondly remembered for his time spent as an impactful Young Men’s leader and a remarkably dedicated home teacher and minister. He loved the outdoors (especially if it involved fishing), oldies rock and roll, and Mexican food. He’ll be dearly missed by so many.
Funeral services for Rick will take place Friday, July 19, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Queen Creek West Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 18951 E Germann Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142. Graveside services will follow at 4:00 p.m., in the Safford Cemetery.
The services can be viewed remotely using the following zoom link and passcode:
https://zoom.us/j/96912320789?pwd=2zLaVODLDfacfAaAyUiwGdZlrwk6Qb.1
Passcode: 514851
Family will receive friends Friday morning, July 19, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m., in the Relief Society room of the Queen Creek West Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Online condolences may be offered at www.viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
