Leo “Red” Welker

Leo W. "Red" Welker, age 86, of Jackson passed away Monday April 10, 2017 at Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau.

He was born June 2, 1930, in Kurreville, son of William "Bill and Josephine "Josie" Ates Welker. He and Gloria Jackson were married December 23, 1950, in Cape Girardeau.

Red attended Oak Ridge High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army June 27, 1948 and honorably served during the Korean War until November 17, 1951. Soon after his discharge from the Army, he began a 32 year career with Southwestern Bell, retiring as an engineer. Red was a Member of Cape First Church in Cape Girardeau, the Telephone Pioneers of America, Altenthal-Joerns American Legion Post #158 and the Elks Lodge #2652 in Jackson, and the VFW Post #3838 in Cape Girardeau. He was a fan of Cardinal Baseball and enjoyed attending shooting matches. His collection of fire arms went hand-in-hand with his love of hunting... fox hunting, bird hunting and especially deer hunting with his daughter and son.

In addition to his wife of 66 years, Gloria Welker, loving survivors include a son and daughter, Keith (Suezan) Welker and Debbie (David) Fiorini of Millersville; seven grandchildren, Daryll (Billy) Franchi, Weston (Sara) Faller, Kody Welker, Dakota Welker, Jerrica (Tanner) Houchins, David Fiorini and Diana Fiorini; and a greatgrandchild, Will Franchi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and three sisters.

The visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, 2017 in Chapel B of McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

The funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 2017 at the funeral home with the Revs. Gary Brothers and Charles Lance officiating.

Interment will be in Old Salem Cemetery near Millersville with military honors.

The family suggests that contributions be made to Old Salem Cemetery Fund.