Dorothy Welch

Dr. Dorothy Ann (Bouchard) Welch, PhD 

Age 86 of Wayzata and Palm Beach Shores, FL passed away Friday, January 27, 2023. Preceded in death by parents, Lawrence and Olive Bouchard.  Brothers and sisters-in-law, Darroel & Erna Welch, Marilyn Beltz, Dennis & Shirley Welch.

 Dorothy valued a lifetime of education.  She graduated from South High School in 1954 where she was Valedictorian. She continued her education at the University of Minnesota.  She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre & Education in 1958.  Master of Arts in Theatre & Education in 1963 and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.). In 2010 Dorothy received the CEHD Distinguished Alumni Award for exemplary leadership of a multi-district program for gifted students and a lifetime dedication to the well-being of youth. 

 After graduating from the U of MN, Dorothy taught in the Hopkins School District. Upon retiring from teaching in Hopkins, Dorothy took over the Mentor Connection for Gifted & Talented Students Program for District 287.  The program grew and was highly successful under Dorothy’s leadership. She then moved on to Wayzata High School, where she led their Mentor Connection for Gifted & Talented Students Program. She also worked with student teachers at the U of MN.  She finally retired from teaching in 2019.  She dedicated her life to teaching and enhancing the lives of her students.

 Dorothy lived a life of service and supported many causes.  She was involved in Rotary Club in Wayzata and Palm Beach Shores, Historical Society of Wayzata and Minnesota, volunteered at the Guthrie Theatre, Seasiders in Florida, many animal rescue organizations and hosted numerous exchange students.

 Dorothy is survived by nephews and nieces, Allan Beltz (Margaret), Barbara Davis (Gary), Steve Welch (Susan), Mary Rachor (Lloyd); “Grandbabies” Anna Davis, Bethany Harris (Josiah), Caleb Davis (Stephanie), Daniel Davis (Emma); numerous great nieces/nephews and great-great nieces/nephews; cousin, Joyce Hoffman, Exchange Student/Son Maxyril Avalos, and countless family and friends.

Dorothy established the Dorothy B. Welch Fellowship in 2017 to provide support to the College of Education & Human Development graduate students. Memorials are requested to this fund in her memory.  Please make checks to UMF Fund 22142 and mail to UMF 200 Oak Street SE, Suite 500 Minneapolis, MN 55455 or go online and donate at: https://makingagift.umn.edu/give/yourgift.html?&cart=22142.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Wayzata Community Church, 125 East Wayzata Boulevard on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 2:00.  Visitation and coffee/deserts will be held following the service.  The burial will be at 4:00 at Groveland Cemetery.

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