Gary Welty

Gary Lee Welty, 76, of Florence, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on May 10, 2025.

Born on April 25, 1949, in Wichita, Kansas, Gary was the beloved son of Shirley Ann Longhofer and Clinton Welty. His life was marked by his honorable service in the United States Navy and his dedication to VFW Post 6957 in Haysville, Kansas, where he was an active member for over 40 years. Gary also enjoyed a fulfilling career at Cessna Aircraft, where he worked for more than 35 years.

Gary was a dedicated former member of the Shriners, valuing the camaraderie and community spirit fostered during his time with the organization. His legacy is characterized by a deep love for his family and friends, cherishing the moments spent with them. An avid camper and fisherman, Gary found great joy in the outdoors. He leaves behind Dayla Nelson, his cherished companion for over a decade, and his best friend, a beloved dog named Jamie. Gary embraced his roles as a loving father to Lisa Ann Fields and devoted grandparent to Christian R. Dibben, leaving behind a rich heritage of love and friendship.

He is survived by his loving companion, Dayla Nelson; his ex-spouse, Karen Louise Welty; daughter Lisa Ann Fields and son-in-law Ryan P. Fields; and grandchildren, including Christian R. Dibben and his companion, Katie, from Haysville, Kansas; Amber Stetler and Jessica Stetler; step-grandchild Ian Melte, son of LeNae from Osowatomie, Kansas; cousin Darlene Rabe from Shattuck, Oklahoma; half-sister Teresa Homesly from Edmond, Oklahoma; and half-brothers Chip Welty from Toledo, Oregon, and Danny Quick from Lake Suzy, Florida. He is also survived by his nieces, Kara and Kayla Quick, from Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley Ann Longhofer Quick and Clinton Welty; half-brother Jerry Quick from Port Charlotte, Florida; daughter Angela Stetler of Wichita, Kansas; stepdaughter LeNae Rochelle Nelson Clevenger from Enid, Oklahoma; and grandparents Frances and Gerald Hatfield from Haysville, Kansas, and Adaline Coker from Wichita, Kansas.

A memorial service will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas and Good Shepherd Hospice, in Newton, Kansas.

Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.