Jerry R. Welch

Jerry R. Welch, a longtime Portland resident, died at age 82 on April 4 after a prolonged illness. He was born in Libby, Montana and grew up in the Seattle are. He spent 4 years in the Air Force and then worked for several years in the food brokerage business. He later worked for many years in heavy equipment sales, having begun his career with a John Deere dealership in Hillsboro, Oregon followed by 12 years as store manager for JI Case in Eugene, Phoenix, and Portland. He ultimately established his own successful heavy equipment dealership, known as Equipment and Supply Company, which was located on Colombia Boulevard in Portland. He was also an avid golfer and private pilot. He is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter, Wendy Simmons; three grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.