January 15, 1961 – November 9, 2025
Dr. James “Jamie” Welsh, 64, passed away suddenly on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 17, 2025, at his home church, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 410 N. Broadway St., Manly, with Rev. Ben Valentine, celebrant. He will be laid to rest beside his mother at Sunset Rest Cemetery in Northwood.
Visitation will be from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Conner Colonial Chapel, 1008 1st Ave. South, Northwood.
James William Welsh was born January 15, 1961, in Mason City, the son of Dr. Maurice and Lois Jean (Robb) Welsh. He grew up in Northwood and graduated from Northwood-Kensett High School in 1979. From a young age, Jamie knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a chiropractor. He attended NIACC and later Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, Minnesota, graduating in 1983.
Returning home, Jamie joined his father at Welsh Chiropractic in Northwood, where he dedicated his career to helping others. His patients were his top priority, and he took great pride in caring for them – often coming in after hours or on weekends if someone needed him. The office hours might have read “7:30 to 5,” but Jamie’s service had no schedule. He might run a few minutes behind, but he always showed up, and he always cared.
On October 11, 1986, Jamie married Laurie Swenson at First Lutheran Church in Northwood and though the couple later separated, they were blessed with a daughter, Kelli, who became the light of his life. His granddaughters, Kinslee and Bailee, brought him endless joy and pride.
After many walks together, Jamie asked Val Thomas on a date – and for the past 18 years, the two have been inseparable. They shared countless adventures and an easy companionship that everyone around them admired.
Outside of work, Jamie loved his motorcycle rides, afternoon walks, and keeping busy outdoors. He was patient, kind, and generous, always willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge (even when you didn’t ask for a lesson). He had a laid-back way of life, a big heart, and a genuine care for everyone he met.
Jamie was a longtime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and an active part of his community, serving for many years on the Northwood Community Center Board, including time as its president.
His easygoing nature, gentle humor, and willingness to help will be deeply missed.
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Kelli (Brian) Wallin of Northwood; granddaughters, Kinslee and Bailee; his significant other, Val Thomas of Northwood; sisters, Cris (Laurence) Wells and Gayle (Robert) King, both of Arizona; sister-in-law, Carol Welsh; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Maurice and Lois Welsh, and his brother, John Patrick Welsh.
Conner Colonial Chapel. 641-324-1543.
ColonialChapels.com