Steven Anthony Welch

Steven Anthony Welch, Age 61 of Black Oak, IN passed away Thursday June 11, 2026 at home, surrounded by family. He was born on May 23, 1965, in Hammond, Indiana.

Steve is survived by his children, Michael (Samantha) Welch and Lisa (Jon) Short Bull; his siblings, Jeffrey (Kathy) Welch, Debra (Charlie) Holbrook, and Vickie (Hal) Hogue; his beloved grandchildren, Cody, James, Ethan, and Brooklyn; his uncle, Frank Gursky Jr.; his aunt, Anna “Rich” Kersten; and his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his lifelong partner, Barbara Thomas; his parents, Roy and Antonia Welch; his aunt, Diane Slater; his uncle, Joseph Gursky; and his nephew, Anthony Brown II.

Steve was the unofficial mayor of Black Oak. He carried a strong work ethic that he instilled in everyone who knew him. He was “Duke” to many, “Uncle Duke” to his nieces and nephews, and “Pa” to his grandbabies.

If you knew Steve, you knew about his fascination with Bigfoot. It became a well-known and memorable part of his personality. He could turn any conversation into a story worth listening to. He took great pride in raising his children and grandchildren, and he extended that same love, guidance, and care to any child lucky enough to be around him. He had all the kids chanting “Black Oak” loud and proud.

To know Steve was to love him, and he left a mark on this world that will live on forever. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.

“Though gone from our sight, his love and the memories he gave us will live on forever in our hearts.” 

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026 beginning at 3:00pm followed by a Memorial Service at 6:30pm at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road (one block south of Ridge Road) Highland, IN, 46322.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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