Debra Rose Welch, age 66, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family after a hard-fought battle with cancer on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. She will be remembered by her generosity, endless guidance and willingness to always put others first.
Debra was born August 28, 1958 in Tomah, WI to Albert and Rose Mary (Hart) Koranda. She graduated in 1976 from Tomah High School then went on to The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where she earned a degree in Accounting.
On October 4, 1980, Debra was united in marriage to the love of her life Rick Welch in Tomah, WI. Together they had three wonderful children; Amanda, Erin, and Tyler. She worked for CLA as a CPA until her retirement in 2023. During her 43 year career, she developed friendships with many of her clients.
Debra had strong Catholic beliefs. She dedicated many years of her life to helping the parish community. She belonged to the P.C.C.W., Finance Committee and Parish Council along with selling scrip after mass. Debra and Rick also were the chair and co-chair of the Fall Fest Raffle for many years. In addition to her parish involvement, she belonged to the ABWA and was the treasurer of the Tomah Health Community Foundation.
Debra was her children’s #1 fan in all their sporting events. She also enjoyed cheering on the Packers and Brewers. She often could be found snuggling on the couch reading stories to her grandkids or watching Hallmark. In addition, planting and taking care of flowers was a beloved summertime passion.
Cooking and baking were also favorite pastimes of hers. She always made sure she had a fresh pan of blonde brownies waiting for her kids when they came home to visit. Debra was also famous for her homemade strawberry jam, applesauce, pork and dumplings and chicken and biscuits which her kids and grandkids adored.
Debra is survived by her husband, Rick, of 44 years; children, Amanda (Eric) Swenberg, Erin (David) Turner, Tyler (Autumn) Welch; 7 grandchildren, Addilyn, Cameron, Ainsley, and Chloe Swenberg, Peyton and Teagan Turner, Henry Welch, and many other relatives.
Debra is preceded in death by her parents, a sister, a brother, father-in-law, and a brother-in-law.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Queen of the Apostles Parish in Tomah. Father Ethan Hokamp will officiate. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Tomah. Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., with a rosary beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah, as well as on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Debra’s memory to The Tomah Area Cancer Support (TACS).
The Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Torkelson Funeral Home
