Welsh, Wayne W. of North Reading passed away on May 23^rd surrounded by his loving children.  He was the beloved husband of the late Catherine F. Welsh (Barrett), and cherished father of Michael Welsh and his wife, Vivian of Jupiter, FL, Jennifer Welsh of Boston, and Paul Welsh and his wife, Colleen of Melrose. In addition to his children, Wayne is survived by five loving grandchildren, Patrick, Cate, Matthew, Rory, and Mason, whom he adored. He is also survived by his brother, James Welsh and his wife, Cynthia of Beverly, many loving nieces and nephews, and other extended family and friends. Wayne was the son of the late James and Emily (D’Entremont) Welsh, and brother of the late Elaine O’Connor Doten and Kevin Welsh. 

Wayne grew up in Lynn where he attended Lynn Classical High School. He later attended Salem State College, and served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. 

From an early age, Wayne was active in sports and loved vacationing with family and friends on Newfound Lake in NH. He was extremely passionate about cars—especially his 1970 Corvette. Wayne was an avid golfer and loved spending time on the course. He was also a fan of all New England sports teams and was always happy watching games with family and friends. Wayne enjoyed current events, history, and science, and loved reading as much news as possible each day.

At 28, Wayne married the love of his life, Catherine (Barrett), whom he first met while working as a paperboy in their families’ shared neighborhood. He was a devoted, loving father to their three children, whom he unconditionally supported, encouraged, and treasured throughout his entire life.  Wayne was a store manager at Stop & Shop for 52 years, before retiring last June. He valued family above all else, and was a loving and devoted friend to all who knew him.

Funeral from the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading, at Reading line, on Wednesday, May 31^st at 9:30am. Funeral Mass in St. Theresa's Church, 63 Winter St. (Rte. 62), North Reading at 10:30am. Relatives and friends may visit at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4-8pm. Interment St. Mary’s Cemetery, Lynn.

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