Carl Lee Welker

Carl Lee Welker, born on January 26, 1932, in Palmer, Missouri, was a devoted family man and a steadfast member of his community. Carl went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the age of 92.

Carl dedicated many years of his life to General Motors until his well-earned retirement. As someone who never set still, Carl often engaged in odd jobs for his neighbors and devoted time to tinkering with cars. His work ethic was profound, and he instilled in his children the importance of paying attention to detail and completing every task to the best of their abilities. Additionally, Carl proudly served in the United States Army from November 25, 1952 until November 4, 1954.

A significant part of Carl's life was his deep love for his faith. When able, Carl attended Center Point Baptist Church of Steelville. Carl loved reading his Bible which was a priority. One of the cherished memories shared by his children recounts the day Carl, along with his son Rick and daughter Carla, received the Lord as their personal Savior and were baptized together, marking a moment of joy and spiritual unity for the family.

Carl held a fondness for outdoor activities that included playing baseball during his youth in the local leagues of Belgrade and Palmer. His passion for nature was reflected in his love for deer hunting, fishing, and camping at Hazel Creek. These moments in the great outdoors were treasured by Carl, as family was central to his life, and he enjoyed creating lasting memories with them.

In addition to his personal accomplishments, Carl took pride in being a husband, father, and grandfather, roles he cherished immensely. He is survived by four children: Carla Madden, Richard (Susan) Welker, Vicki Welker, and Susan (Johnny) Schorr. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Jeremy (Maria) Welker, Jason (Amy) Welker, Katherine (David) Pitrucha, Elizabeth (Erick) Wildgen, and Lauren (Jim) Bauer. Carl also delighted in his seven great-grandchildren: Cameron, Landon, Viviani, Sophia, Grace, Finn, and Axel. He is further survived by two siblings, Dale Welker and Max (Fern) Welker, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law.

In addition to his parents, Carl was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Verna May Welker; their son-in-law, Danny Madden; granddaughter, Elizabeth May Welker; sister, Maybelle (Leon) Yount, along with other dear family members.

Carl's legacy of hard work, faith, and love will be cherished by all who knew him. He leaves behind numerous wonderful memories that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to share in his life.

Visitation for Carl Lee Welker will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM at DeClue Funeral Home, located at 301 E High Street, Potosi, MO 63664. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM with Carl’s grandson, Jason Welker, officiating with Pastor Matt Cook assisting. Carl will receive full military honors presented by the United States Army along with VFW Post 6996. Interment and final prayers will be held at Courtois Baptist Cemetery, Berryman, Missouri.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.