Harold Joseph Welage Jr.

Harold Joseph Welage Jr., born in Covington, KY in 1940 to Harold and Gertrude (Stone) Welage, left for his best adventure yet on February 19, 2021 listening to bagpipes play “Scotland the Brave.”
His insatiable passion for the outdoors kept him hunting and fishing year-round from the time he could convince his dad to take him before sunup in El Paso, TX to making plans for the next hunt just last month. Harold and Georgette were married in 1968 in Baton Rouge, LA and he immediately bonded with her brothers Mike Wilson and Greg Wilson. Harold proudly bragged that he was his mother-in-law, Virginia’s, favorite son. A position at the First National Bank of Durango prompted a relocation to southwest Colorado soon after they were married where they have lived ever since. Harold proudly served local small businesses and ranchers as a loan officer for over 30 years developing lasting relationships with customers and playing practical jokes on colleagues.
Their children, Melissa (Brett) Johnson of Colorado Springs, CO, Samantha (Daniel) Jordan of Colorado Springs, CO, and Harold (Melissa) Welage III of Fruita, CO will miss Dad greatly but are really looking forward to our heavenly reunion someday; Dan will bring hotdogs from the Mancos High concession stand, Brett will bring his new Wal-Mart charcoal grill and a happy cow, and Mel will be up early to take you for Black Friday Cabela’s sales. Of Course! What’s heaven without a bargain cave? The family has great memories together. His friendships were deep like brothers he never had. His sense of humor often left a smile on people’s faces, whether he knew them or not. He leaves a legacy of a love of history, escapades in nature, and caring deeply for those he loved.
Harold is survived by his wife; children; dog, Parker; daughters, Mary (David) Rinehart, and Ruth (Jimmy) Martin and their families of Tennessee. His Colorado grandchildren include Clara, Cadence, Luke, Grace, Hope, and Faith. “You too also,” Dad/Grandpa.
The family will have a private graveside service. They request any special memories be sent to rnnrbaby@hotmail.com or Melissa Johnson, 475 Lowick Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80906 because she likes to make legacy books.
Those wishing to make a donation are invited to consider Durango Animal Connection, Erin Nissan, 161 Stills Lane, Durango, CO 81303 (970-749-1968) or Branson Bearcat C.L.A.W. Project, check payable to “Branson School” 101 Saddle Rock Dr, Branson, CO 81027.