Diane M. Welch

MANCHESTER – Diane Mitchell Welch passed peacefully on Jan. 22, 2022.

Born July 1, 1942, in Portland and raised in Manchester, she was the youngest of two daughters of Elmer and Vesta Mitchell. She attended Cony High School, Ricker College and graduated with a social work degree from the University of Maine, Orono.

After graduation, Diane began working for the Maine Department of Human Services and then had a satisfying career at Vocational Rehabilitation where she enjoyed her coworkers and helping those in need.

Once retired, Diane gardened extensively which was evident by her abundant flower and vegetable stand on Route 17 in Manchester.

Diane left a lasting impression on others through her sense of humor, intelligence, and strength of will. She had more than her fair share of personal challenges, yet she was always caring for others.

She raised two spirited sons as single mother and then supported one who experienced health and addiction problems until his untimely death in 2016. She also lived with and cared for her parents until the end of their lives which allowed them to remain in their family home of over 60 years. All the while, she provided a nurturing home for numerous cats and dogs.

In the past two years, Diane and cat, Lucky, moved from the childhood home she loved but had become overwhelming to a comfortable condo nearby where she made friends and enjoyed get-togethers. She also delighted in seeing the new owners bring her childhood home back to its previous glory.

The family thanks Androscoggin Hospice House, Auburn for her care during Diane’s brief stay. We thank Diane’s friends and fellow members of Manchester Community Church for their support.

Diane was predeceased by her son, Ryan.

She is survived by son, Patrick Welch, wife Kerry, granddaughters Lily and Caroline; sister, Lynn Ramsey and husband Paul, both whom she enjoyed day-trip adventures; niece, Lisa Ferguson and husband John, nephew, Steve Ramsey and wife Francine; close cousin, Jean Brown; and companion, Ernie Johnson and daughter Lori and their summers on Cobbossee Lake.

A celebration of life will occur in the spring.

A donation may be made in Diane’s honor to

Pals Animal Shelter,

188 Case Rd.,

Readfield, ME 04355