John Ernest Welter passed away Sunday, December 28, 2025 at Providence Medical Center in Missoula surrounded by family.
Born on June 13, 1947 in Butte, MT to Frances (Risley) and Richard Welter, he attended Emerson Elementary, Butte Junior High, Butte High School and Western Montana College, graduating with an elementary education degree.
On May 10, 1969, he married the love of his life, Margaret (Margie) Fanning. They welcomed two daughters, Marcie and Sherrie.
John served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After serving in the Army, he worked as a truck driver at The Pit, as a machinist for Westinghouse, and ended his career as an information specialist with the F.B.I.
John was a voluntary fireman with the Boulevard Fire Department. He also helped in the construction and placement of The Lady of the Rockies.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, his brother Tom, sister-in-law Nancy Welter, brother-in-law Tim Merritt, brother-in-law Murv Fanning, and grandson Bradly Kessler.
John is survived by his wife of 56 years, Margie; daughter Marcie (Greg Kessler); daughter Sherrie (Adam Clark); grandchildren Connor & Zack Kessler, and Kyla & AJ Clark. Brother Leonard Welter, sister Marylynn Merritt, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Bill & Dee Fisher, sister-in-law Connie Fanning and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the excellent staff at Providence Medical Center for their kindness and care during John’s final days.
In lieu of the flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of the donors choice.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m.
Sunday January 4, 2026
Butte Depot
818 South Arizona St.
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m.
Sunday January 4, 2026
Butte Depot
818 South Arizona St.
Butte, Montana 59701
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Kevin McMahon says
Dear Margie, Marcie, Sherrie and Family,
So sorry to hear about your loss of your husband and father, John. He was a true gentleman who both my wife and I had the pleasure to have worked with in our careers. John was the kind of man who would give a helping hand to anyone who needed it. May all your fond memories of John comfort you all in the days ahead and may he rest in peace.
Charlene Warren says
I am so very sorry to read of John’s passing.
I had the opportunity to work with him in the Butte Federal Building. Always a kind spirit, true gentleman of few words and that always lil smile on his face. Know there were many of us that felt he was a welcome face each morning we came into the office.
Sincere condolences 💔
Dale olson says
I have fond memories of working with John at Westinghouse back in the early 80’s. He was always easy going and a pleasure to work with. I also remember going up in the highlands to cut firewood in the fall. Some logs fell off his trailer on the highway. Thank God no one got hurt. May God hold you in his hand Margie and family during this difficult time.
Bobbie Stodden says
Margie, Marcie, Sherrie and families my sincere condolences in the loss of John. He was a great guy and I learned a lot from him during our years at the FBI . He was always kind and very helpful. I knew John before I worked with him as my parents often bowled in the Boulevard bowling tournament and they enjoyed his company at those events. May your many memories help get you all through this difficult time.
Shelia Schumacher says
Margie and family I’m so sorry to hear of Johns passing I’ve remember him in high school and he gave me his graduation picture always a kind person may he RIP
Darlene Allen says
Margie and family, I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a wonderful person and always kind whenever I saw him. Know that he will be remember by many for his kindness and caring ways.
Darlene Jaeger says
Margie We are so sorry to hear of John’s passing. We were next door neighbors for a short time on Sunset Road . Even though we didn’t know him very well , he would always be friendly and kind , as we would visit with him in the yard , over the fence. May the Lord be with you and your family and help you through this difficult time . Jeff and Darlene Jaeger
Debbie Bajovich says
Margie and Connie, this is Debbie Hooper from many years ago. I am so sorry you are going through the loss of a loved one. God bless you and your families. Sending hugs wrapped in prayers ❤️ 🙏🏻
Jack Beckman says
Joh and i were in the same class of 1965 from Butte High. He was just a good guy and part of the group of people I knew. Margie, John, Lynda (Patterson) Focella, Rick Forcella, Carol and Bob Kruger and Joanie and Bob Wilke were all of the same group post high school and celebrated our hoilidays and other events in Butte, We all had kids about the same time and lived long and challanging lives. Sad to see him pass but he lived life to the maximum until his recent health problems.
Florence (Beanie) and Jim Fisher says
Margie, Sherri, and Marcie. I am so sorry to hear about John’s passing. He was such a great guy and truly loved his family. My deepest condolences to all of you and your families during this difficult this most difficult time ! May he rest in peace💔🙏
Florence Fisher says
Margie, Sherrie, Marcie, Dee and Bill. We are so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was such a kind man and truly loved his family. Our deepest condolences to all of you and your families during this most difficult time. May he rest in peace💔🙏
Joyce Kuecks says
Margie sending hugs to you and family. Been a hard walk for you all. Maybe we could do lunch sometime.
Joyce Kuecks
Julie Heard says
My deepest sympathy. John was such a kind and generous sole.
Cathy West says
Margie, I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Judith D Murphy says
Dear Margie and family,
I was saddened to hear of your loss. I was not paying attention to the paper as I was setting up Frank’s funeral service around that time. I enjoyed John whenever i would see you two. His ready shy smile was great.
I will be praying for all of you.
Judy Murphy