Dr. James Welker, Jr. Obituary

Dr. James B. Welker, Jr., went peacefully to be with his Lord on the morning of August 3, 2025.

He was born to James "Barney" Welker and Helen Asire Welker on August 29, 1931, in New Castle, PA. He graduated from New Castle High School in 1949 and attended Houghton College until 1952 when he enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh's Dental School. Upon receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1956, he enlisted in the United States Airforce serving in the Dental Corps at Pinecastle Airforce Base in Florida through 1959. It was this same year that he returned to New Castle to open his dental practice where he cared for his patients until his retirement in 1996.

He married his wife Norma Karki on August 30, 1952. They were married just shy of 73 happy years and she survives him at home. Together they were blessed with 5 children, all boys, and ultimately eleven grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. David James (deceased in 1959); Randall Alan (Lisa) of Lordstown, OH; Keith Bernhardt (Sheila) of Mars, PA; James Daniel (Susan) of New Castle, PA; and Jon David (Nancy) of New Wilmington, PA. Grandchildren are Jennifer (Tommy) , Matthew and Tanner (Breanna) Welker; Renee (Greg) Hassell, Hannah (Austin) Allton, Lea (Derick) Kaufman; Erik (Leah), Alex (Deanna) and Daniel Welker; Emma and Lena Welker.

Jim was formerly a faithful member of Calvary Independent Church where he served on the Official Board and is presently a member of New Life Baptist Church. He served on the Independent Faith Mission Board, two terms on Neshannock Township School Board including serving as President, member of the American Dental Association and President of the Lawrence County Dental Association.

His hobbies were golfing, model railroading, farming, gardening and caring for his lawn. After retirement he and Norma enjoyed traveling, playing golf three days per week, and attending their grandchildren's sporting and musical events.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister (Martha Cobb), a brother (Ben) and son David.

Jim was a faithful servant of Christ and lived a clean life. He will be missed dearly by his family, friends, and the community.

Visitation will be held on Friday August 8, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a funeral service immediately following, at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home, 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105, officiated by Pastor Ron Nagle of New Life Baptist Church.

Interment will be at Oak Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that all contributions be made in Jim's name to the New Life Baptist Church, 3414 State Route 208, New Wilmington, PA 16142 or Coalition for Christian Outreach, 5912 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.

Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.