George Edward Welsch, Jr., affectionally known as ‘Junior’, 55, passed away surrounded by family, April 30, 2026, at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, Kan. He was born Sept. 17, 1970, in Larned, to George and Sandy (Drake) Welsch, Sr.

Junior dedicated his life to family, farming, and the agriculture industry. He began his journey working for Mull Farms and Feeding and Circle K. He dedicated 16 years to the Great Bend Coop. He stepped in to a role in agronomy sales that he was proud of and worked hand in hand with his customers to ensure their success and satisfaction. This paved his way to take a position with Mid-America Ag as Sales Agronomy Manager until his passing. Junior married Leisa Achatz on July 8, 1995, in Great Bend. They built a beautiful life with their two children, creating memories with many outdoor activities. Junior sacrificed his time and talents by serving on the Great Bend City Council, Barton County Planning Commission and Lake Barton Golf Course board.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 30 years, Leisa Welsch; father, George Edward Welsch, Sr. of Larned; son, Chase Welsch of Great Bend; daughter, Lauren Welsch and fiancée Isabelle Peters of Lindsborg; sister, Miracle Welsch of Larned; several nieces and nephews; one great niece; one great nephew. He is preceded in death by his mother, Sandy Smith.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Heartland Community Church, with Pastor Troy Miller presiding. Visitation is available from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, May 4, 2026, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family receiving guests from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. To honor his legacy, the family encourages friends to designate memorials to Junior Welsch Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Rd.

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 2, 2026