Michael Welsh

Michael Welsh, 72, of Billings died July 21, 2013 of complications following lung surgery with his wife, Rita, at his side. Michael was born March 20, 1941 in Bronxville, New York to Glenna and Vernon Welsh. He joined the Air Force after high school and served with the Strategic Air Command in Spain. After his tour he attended the University of Seville, Spain. Upon returning to the States, Mike worked a variety of jobs until he moved to Helena, Montana where he was employed by Montana State Fund as a Claims Adjuster and manager for many years. Mike and his wife moved from Helena to Billings where Mike accepted the position of Worker's Comp Manager with Valor Insurance until the company closed in 2003. In 2004 Mike joined the Avitus Group as Worker's Compensation Team Supervisor. All who worked with Mike will miss his integrity, commitment and excellent service. Mike was an amazing individual with a keen mind and a wonderful sense of humor. He loved his friends and neighbors in Josephine Crossing and Billings and enjoyed all of the time that was spent with them over the past several years. The fur-friends that he and his wife raised were his family. He knew and loved Montana for its wild beauty and fantastic big sky. Michael is survived by his wife Rita, two sisters, Jane Hamlin and Suzy Nickerson, step-mother, Marcia Welsh, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his daughter Victoria and his brother, Matthew. There will be a private ceremony at a later date for the family. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Billings Animal Rescue Kare (B.A.R.K.) or the charity of your choice. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com.