Thomas W. Welsh

Thomas William Welsh, age 76, of Wilmington, DE passed away on July 15, 2022.

He was born in Darby, PA to the late John Edward Welsh and Mary Agnes (Sweeney) Welsh.  He met his wife, MaryJane, at age 14 while roller skating at Elmwood, and they were together until she passed in 2021.  Tom graduated from St. James High School in 1963 and attended Goldey-Beacom College.

Tom served in the Air International Guard during the Vietnam War.   He was employed as an FAA certified Airframe and Powerplant mechanic (A&P) with Trans World Airlines (TWA), US Airways, Alleghany Airlines, and USA 3000.

He was a 9th degree Grand Master in the Taekwondo International Federation.  He started with Sho Rin Ryu Karate in the 60s.  Tom met instructor Grand Master Suk Jun Kim in the mid-70s and remained close friends for 45 years. In 1978, he received official recognition with GM Kim from Gen. Choi and formed the Taekwon-do Instructors Association.  Through the years Tom travelled all over the world including Canada and Korea training, attending functions, judging tournaments, and teaching numerous students.  Tom was much more than an instructor to his students; he was a mentor for life.  He is in the Taekwon-do Encyclopedia Collection.  In 2022 he was integral in the forming the Taekwon-do International Union and served as Vice President.

From early childhood, he enjoyed drawing and painting.  Tom received awards in high school for his accomplishments in art.  He used his artistic skills throughout his life, whether it was creating signs for the Taekwon-do, house projects, “assisting” with school projects, and taking classes in retirement. Many of his painting are displayed throughout his home.

Tom enjoyed gathering family around and spending time together.  He took great pride in spending time with his grandchildren, witnessing their adventures and achievements, while of course sneaking them treats.  He had a passion for cars and took pride in always playing with his “toys”.  Tom noticed any fingerprint that appeared on his beloved Mercury.

Tom is survived by his children, Anne S. Undorf (Anthony) and Thomas J. Welsh (Allison), Nicolette Welsh (John) and Tyler Welsh (Taylor); and his grandchildren, Alexander, Andrew, Penelope, Jack, Beau and Grant; and his sister, Helen Welsh (Don).

A Viewing will be held at the Gebhart Funeral Home, 3401 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703 on Friday morning, July 22, 2022 from 9:30 am until 10:45am.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday morning, July 22, 2022 at 11:30am at St. Helena Catholic Church, 602 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE 19809.  Interment will follow in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, 1600 S. Sproul Road, Springfield, PA 19064.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to CHILD, Inc., 507 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE  19809.

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302.798.7726

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