Charles F. Welsh, former First Assistant Clerk-Magistrate of the Orleans District Court passed away peacefully at home after a long illness on December 5th, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Elizabeth Welsh.
Born July 11, 1945, son of the late Judge Robert A. and Alma Welsh, Charlie was a lifelong Provincetown resident. He graduated from Provincetown High School in 1963 and Boston University in 1967. After college, he returned to his beloved hometown and began his career at Orleans District Court.
Charles committed himself to a life in public service. For over 54 years Charlie, as he was universally known by friends, colleagues, judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers, police officers, and the public who sought aid at the court, provided caring assistance to all comers with wisdom, judgment, compassion, and humor. He embodied the true definition of the quintessential gentleman. A soft-spoken leader, mentor, and teacher to all who worked with and for him. An unassuming confidant to his colleagues and friends. A man who always believed everyone deserves a fair trial. He was never without a quote or poem to celebrate a milestone or teach a lesson This indeed shows a glimpse of what a special man he was. One of Charles’s favorite quotes sums his life well-lived, perfectly... ‘My life is my argument’ by Albert Schweitzer. He retired in January of this year.
In addition to his beloved wife of 38 years, Elizabeth Post Welsh, children, Amanda, Nicole, Robert, James and Jeanne, as well as his much-loved grandchildren, Michaela, Kendall, Anna Rose, Madison, Julia, Zach, Lily Hope, Myles, Mason, and Max survive him. He also leaves his brother Robert and his sisters Mary and Alma Welsh. He was predeceased by his brother Walter and his sister Ann Claire Welsh.
Calling hours for Charlie will be Friday December 18th, from 4:00 - 7:00 pm at the Gately Funeral Home, 94 Harry Kemp Way, Provincetown. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, calling hours will restrict the number of people allowed in the room at one time, limiting conversations during visitation. Face coverings must be worn, social distancing must be honored and capacity regulations will be followed.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at St. Peter the Apostle Church, 11 Prince St, Provincetown, at 10:00 am, Saturday July 10, 2021. A private burial will follow at St Peter’s Cemetery, Provincetown.
To honor Charles's memory, memorial donations may be made to two charities close to his heart. Turning Point, Inc, c/o Tracey Chalifoux, 5 Perry Way, Newburyport, MA 01950, www.turningpointinc.com or the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts, 30 Lyman Street, Suite 10, Westborough, MA 01581, www.biama.org.