"Fred (Fritz) was a wonderful classmate at Central HS. Always funny and friendly. My sympathy to all of you for losing such a very special and talented person. All my prayers to you. Marilyn Steffen Krasowski. "
In loving memory of
Fred Welke
February 2, 1949 - April 12, 2019
Fred Welke, 70, of Winona, MN died Friday, April 12, 2019 at his home. Fred was born February 2, 1949 in St. Paul, MN to Theophilus and Florence (Gruner) Welke. He attended the University of Minnesota and Regions Hospital School of Anesthesia. Fred married the love of his life, Cindy Selby, on September 7, 1974. The couple had two daughters, Emily and Paula. They settled in Winona and Fred went to work for many years at Winona Health. He was determined to leave this world a better place by volunteering for organizations such as Health Volunteers Oversees. He would gather unused medical supplies and store them in his basement to donate them to third world countries. Fred took 7 mission trips to these countries, six of which were in South America and one in Tanzania. He was a volunteer for Thrivent, active in Rotary, and is a Harris Fellow. Fred was an active member of Central Lutheran Church.
Fred was loyal to his friends; he was the glue that kept the group together as they continue the 35 year Lake Wasota Golf Tradition. Aside from golf, Fred was an avid Minnesota Sports fan while also enjoying biking, hiking, and spending time with his family.
Fred is survived by his loving wife, Cindy; daughter, Paula (Trevor) Lipinski; son-in-law, Keith Fifield; grandchildren, Madeline and Benjamin Fifield, Riley Lipinski; brother, Edward (Vicki) Welke. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Emily Fifield and his parents.
A funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, April 18, 2019 at Central Lutheran Church with visitation 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 17 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview and one hour prior to the service at church. Memorial may be made out to Central Lutheran Church, Rotary Club of Winona, or the Lymphoma Leukemia Society.
Tributes
"A great man husband and father I knew him for a short time along with his family he has left a big footprint in our hearts. to his brave and beautiful wife Cindy we send our deepest condolences. Ramon and Mirta "
"Cindy and family, I haven?t seen you since Tootsie?s funeral. I am so sorry to hear about Fred. Growing up the Welke?s were a huge part of our life. My memories of the family and gatherings mean so much to me. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Nancy Plumbo (Kraft)"
"Cindy and Family, My thoughts and sympathies are with you. I graduated high school with Emily. Then worked with you, Cindy with the master gardeners and the raised beds at WInona ORC. Fred will truly be missed at Central. Jackie (Miller) Stevens"
"Fred was a Minnesota Twins fan with me and many others. I took a few of the Twins bus trips that Fred organized and we had such fun. I will miss Fred very much. Fly with the angels Fred ? Dian Biesanz"