Ryan Edward Joseph Welch, 41, originally of Sedro-Woolley, Washington passed away peacefully January 2, 2022 at his home in Ballard, Washington (Seattle).
Ryan was born February 28, 1980 in Mount Vernon, Washington to Rebecca Collins Welch and David Welch.
Ryan was raised in Sedro-Woolley attending Mary Purcell Elementary, Cascade Middle, and Sedro-Woolley High School, graduating with the class of 1998. He was active in sports achieving letters in Cross-Country, Track and Wrestling. He was involved in school leadership and participated in Scouting earning his Eagle Scout Rank.
Ryan drew people to him with his sharp wit and endless humor and was known for his big heart. He was frequently the center of attention even as a toddler and continued entertaining his family as he grew. The ability to create laughter was honed further and became more public during his senior year when it found him as one of the “Boys on the Couch” adding additional entertainment at SWHS football games. He kept people laughing all of his life.
Born and raised a COUG, Ryan attended and graduated from Washington State University in 2003. While there, he worked at the University Recreation Center where his circle of friends grew, and he continued his passion for fitness. His dream job was to join a fire department. He trained, tested and placed high, but at the time jobs were going to returning veterans, which he understood. He went into the world of sales working for several companies and managed regions across the western US. Being on the road, traveling, and away from home lost its charm and so he started working for Amazon, just a 15-minute commute. He enjoyed the challenges of his jobs, but always wished he could have worked helping people directly.
Ryan’s biggest joys were his family, friends, and his beloved dog. He had the greatest friends a man could ever want who loved him as much as he loved them. Ryan considered his family his anchor, but his friends were the links in the chain that helped him stay grounded. So many wonderful times together. We know we will be hearing stories for years to come that will lighten our hearts.
Before Ryan was born his paternal grandmother predicted that he was being placed on this earth to do great things. She was right. He was here to help, protect, stand up for, and love the people he met and the folks he shared his life with. The legacy he leaves behind is the example of love and kindness he showered on others.
He is survived by his parents; sister, Megan Welch Hershaw; brother-in-law, Trevor Hershaw; Scottish sister, Angela Bayne (Iain); nieces, Kaili Hershaw and Josie Hershaw; nephew, Oliver Hershaw; grandmothers, Barbara Collins, Dorothy Welch; uncles Michael Collins (Joan), James Collins (Rene), Robert Collins (Jiranan), Robert Welch (Alma), Joseph Welch (Judith); aunt Patty Welch Farris (Paul); cousins, Casey Collins (Ana), Brian Collins, Eamonn Collins (Madeline), Bryn and Ailish Collins, Lisa Welch and Michelle Livengood (Andrew), Taylor Peterson (Matthew), Mariah, Rachel and Amanda Farris and Blake Welch (Ava); his dear friends who were like brothers from childhood, Joe Jones, Christopher Dickman, Scott Jefvert and so, so many others.
Ryan was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Frank Collins and Joseph Welch, Sr., Tank Williams, Jr., his beloved English bulldog.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Summer 2022. We hope you will join us in remembering this fine man.
If so inclined, donations can be made in Ryan’s name to the Helping Hands Food Bank by check or online. The Food Bank benefitted from his Eagle Scout project and continues to be a family commitment. Share your memories of Ryan and sign the online guest register.
Helping Hands Food Bank
PO Box 632
Sedro-Woolley , WA 98284
Please add “In Memory of Ryan Welch” on the memo line.
I am in shock and disbelief that Ryan is gone. I met this dude in 2006 when we both worked at Hertz Rent A Car together. He was smart, organized, and had me cracking up working with him daily. He helped train me and get better at sales. He was only 1 year old than I am. Reading the obituary had me crying like a baby. He is gone way too soon. What a cool guy. We kept in touch over Facebook and talked about jobs and stuff. I enjoyed his posts about his dog and the trips he took. I can’t even believe I’m writing on his guestbook and he was only 41. I’ll miss you buddy. He always had jokes and sarcasm for me. Ryan Welch “Like the grape juice”
Ryan, I still cannot believe that you’re gone! The last time I saw you was for Christmas a few years ago. We had a great time and I always thought we’d get together soon after for a family reunion, but Covid hit and we hadn’t seen each other since then.
I always looked up to you and you were the joy and entertainment of family get togethers. But more than that you were kind, thoughtful, and had a heart of gold. I still remember when you showed up super late to the last family reunion only to arrive with beautiful flowers for grandma and she loved them. I love you so much Ryan and my heart goes out to Megan, Becky and David. I am so sorry for your loss!!!
Our heartfelt condolences to all of Ryan’s family and friends. Praying the wonderful memories you all have will comfort you. May he rest in heaven watching over his loving family. Love you guys!
Ryan, my sentiments mirror so many others as I read about the cherished memories people have with you—you had the BEST sense of honor and such a wonderful spirit of fun, goodness, and sincerity. The last time I saw you at Querida’s wedding, I admired the words you chose for their ceremony and loved chatting with you for a bit at the reception. I don’t even remember the jokes you made, but as with everyone that crossed your path, all I did was laugh. It has been a blessing to watch all of the crazy shenanigans you’ve pulled off with Joe Jones and your closest friends over the years. I think you inspire all of us to live a little lighter and let go a little more—you knew how to have the most fun and we all need more of that. My heart goes out to everyone impacted the deepest by your departure—it’s a loss that will be felt for eternity, but what a gift you have been to so many wonderful people. May your spirit rest, and may your memories be celebrated.
My deepest sympathy with the loss of your son. He was a wonderful man. My parents always loved visiting you all. Know my thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Ryan made the world brighter for those fortunate to know him. His compassion for others, his sense of humor and wonderful smile will be missed. He left us too young. My prayers for healing for family and friends.
Hearing of this news I’m in disbelief. Rest In Peace brother
You will be sadly missed x
I remember Ryan’s big smile and positive attitude. I have not seen him in about 20 years and yet I remember the last time I saw him. We ran into each other and just visited, he made other people smile and laugh. Prayers and comfort to his kind family. Losing one you love unexpectedly is just so hard. As your loved one, he knows where your heart is. May he rest in heaven.
Rest In Peace my friend. My life was better having met you and the Rec family. You brightened so many lives and we won’t forget you. Forever COUG family.
Thoughts and prayers for Mr Welch and family. My heart goes out to you all.
Our deepest condolences to the entire family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Rest well kind sir. You were a rare find when it came to admirable individuals. Blessed were all of us who knew you. So sad to see you go. Love and prayers as everyone finds their own way to celebrate your uniquely amazing part in each of our lives.
Our hearts go out to Ryan’s family. Although we never got the chance to know him real well, it’s obvious he was a great person. To Ryan.. we r so sorry u suffered like u did. It’s hard and looking at all ur pictures , u always have a big smile. U would never know ur pain. Amazing!!❤️
Welch (or Welchy to the ladies),
I don’t think it’s possible to say something here that everyone who spent more than 5 minutes with you doesn’t already know because you didn’t hide your huge heart, your amazing sense of humor and your witty remarks. I guess all there is to say is… you are one of my closest friends, my roommate, my brother and my heart will be forever missing you!
I love you bud, rest in piece until I see you again!
Last Wednesday evening I got the horrific call that you, Ryan Welch, one of my best friends had passed away. I was in shock. I’m still in shock & I just don’t wanna believe it’s real. I can’t just call you and you’ll answer with “what up cheeks!?” And everything will be ok?! No, that’s not the reality & my heart hurts so bad it physically aches. And reading this memorial now makes it really real 🙁
Just shy of 16 years of friendship, laughs, love, seahawks games, gym time (our friendship began in the gym back when I was working at auburn 24 hr fitness when I was 20 years old), tailgating, beer pong, bar hopping, breakups, movie nights with pizza and beer, walks & Uber rides back to your place in Ballard from wherever we were, Ballard station (many great memories there), phone calls just to chat & catch up, hanging with my family & you having a beer with my dad cuz us ladies were taking too long to get ready, themed parties, tour de green lake adventures, being out on the water having a blast (Lake Tapps & Lake Washington), Apple cup games, your incredible dog Tank, sharing my Hulu account with you cuz you wanted to watch that silly show & didn’t have it, grabbing dinners together & catching up, and so many more moments & memories we have together but it wasn’t long enough. Your life was cut short. We had so many more memories to make. And my heart hurts so bad that you’re not here. And I know how many people you impacted & every room you lit up & you made everyone laugh & have the best time! You were the greatest friend & was always there for me and always had my back. I could never be sad around you cuz you weren’t the type to let me be sad. You brightened up my life so much!! I know there’s so much more I want to say but I’ll leave it at this for now. I love you so much Welch. I miss you so freaking much already & my life will never be the same without you. Until we meet again. RIP legend!! Watch over us & have a beer for me! 🍻🕊💔✨
Ryan, the smiles, laughs and love you brought to so many will never be forgotten. I’ve never met anyone with a heart as big as yours. I’ll cherish the endless memories of our time together and your stories will live on in all your many friends. Thank you for leaving this world a better place and until we meet again, Love you buddy!
My heart goes out to you, Becky, Dave, Megan, Dorothy,Robert, Joseph, Patty and all of Ryan’s family.
Ryan,
I loved playing with you when all the cousins got together at Grandma and Grandpa Welch’s house! You were always super strong even when you were a little boy you would tell us all how strong your muscles were! I remember your amazing personality and your jokes and smile! I will always miss you my dear cousin!
Love your cousin Lisa (Welch) Lancaster
Dear Ryan…. You are forever one of the Pink Easter Bunnies…. a real delight of a person. Blessings to you and your family and friends.
I am so incredibly sorry for all the families lost!! My kids went to school with Ryan !! Prayers for comfort 🙏🏼🙏🏼
Ryan,
You left this world too early my friend. They must have needed you up there to continue spreading love and laughs like you always did down here. One can only hope to be half the man you were! Rip my friend until we meet again
Ryan, I didn’t get to know you very well personally, but your mom was my favorite elementary school teacher, so knowing you that way was expected.
I always enjoyed seeing the fun you & Joey got into. So full of life & laughter.
Rest easy.
RIP Ryan Welch..Love you brother! ❤
Such an incredible loss for so many. Ryan was full of life and laughter and love. He remained full of grace over the years and showed kindness to all. Even as our interactions diminished, he always had a smile and a hug for me when we did see each other. Very blessed to have known him. The 4th of July Footrace will never be the same without him by Joe’s side. Those 2…hilarious. Thank you Welch Family (and Joe) for sharing your precious Ryan with all of us. He will never be forgotten. Love and prayers for comfort to all of you. GO COUGS!
I’m lucky to have been able to call you a friend and roommate. I’ll never forget my time living in Seattle. Rest easy my friend. Love ya buddy!
Ryan, the man I turned too when I felt down or needed a good laugh, the man that at a drop of a hat was there for whatever I needed. If you needed a cat delivered to your ex’s parents house he was your man. Ryan was my roommate for a little while in Auburn and we had a blast out on Tapps or a few trash cans at the Rock. We were workout buddies and always were up to some sort of antics to make others laugh. Ryan was the type of person that would take the shirt off of his back for anyone, a true one of a kind human being. I will never forget Ryan and although our lives took us different paths in our late 30’s when we did catch up it was like we never were away from each other. My last memory was when Ryan was in town for work in Coeur D’Alene where I live now it was a random tuesday and we were just going to have a few and catch up, well a few turned into Karaoke sessions where Ryan was just a riot (I have a video). Ryan you are one of the most unique, cool, kind hearted people I have ever met and I will cherish the memories that were made, it was an honor good sir. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later
Love,
Your Bro-ski
So sorry to hear this news. My prayers go out to his whole family during this time of sadness. I remember Ryan as a very nice guy in school and always treated everyone with kindness and always made people laugh wherever he went.
My condolences to your family.
Ryan brought so much joy to so many people . He would always come visit me and make me laugh every time he was in town . I was blessed to be one of Ryan’s many friends .
Rest in Peace Ryan Welch..you are missed by many..I will always remember your smile, your ability to make everyone laugh, and the way you made everyone feel special. ❤️ You truly made a difference in this world you left far too soon!
Rest In Peace my dear friend for you will be sorely missed but never forgotten 💗🙏💗
Oh Ryan how I will miss you ! One of the few men in this world I feel I could truly be myself around. Random “camping trips” to WSU will never be the same – but boy will we have a good time in your honor.
Thank you for just being you and blessing me and my family with your presence.
Becky, David, and Megan : thanks for shaping Ryan into such a wonderful human being and for sharing him with us.