Iva Louise Welch, 85, of Traverse City, Michigan passed away peacefully on Friday, April 26, 2024 at Boardman Lakes Glen - Highlander. Iva was born on February 19, 1939 in Fife Lake to the late DeBlenna and Julia (Mills) Downey. After school she moved to Traverse City, where she met and married Melvin Welch. He preceded her in death on May 3, 2000. Iva resided in Traverse City for the duration of her life. Iva worked as a bookkeeper at various places in town, most recently at Double D Title Company. She was an avid gardener, loved to crochet and do ceramics as well as scrapbooking. Iva was also a big Detroit Tigers fan. Iva is survived by her son, Larry (Sandy) Welch; her daughter, Sandy (Jeff) Anderson; and her grandchildren, Julia Anderson, Jack Anderson and Grace Welch. Also surviving are a sister, Janet Tidey, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four brothers: Robert Downey, Dennis Downey, Dale Downey and Thomas Downey; and an infant sister, Rita Downey. A funeral service honoring Iva will take place at 11 am, with visitation starting at 10 am, on Monday, May 6, 2024 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St. Traverse City, Michigan 49684. Pastor Chris Lane will officiate. Burial will follow in Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to The Father Fred Foundation, 826 Hastings St., Traverse City, Michigan 49686. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Iva's family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. Published on May 1, 2024
