Michelle Welch

Michelle Hackett Welch, a lifelong Bend, Oregon, resident passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025 after an eight-year battle with breast cancer. She was surrounded by her family as she slipped from their hand into hands of Jesus. 

Michelle was born to Gene and Mary Hackett on October 20, 1960. Michelle grew up active in the First Baptist Church. At age four Michelle gave her life to Jesus and her world was never the same after that decision. 

Michelle went to Bend Public Schools and graduated from Bend Senior High in 1978. She attended OCE and received a BS in Elementary Ed. 

Michelle was a lifelong lover of music and was accomplished performer on flute, piano and as a vocalist. She was active in choirs at school and church. Michelle distinguished herself as being voted outstanding choir member in junioe high, high achool and college choir. Michelle enjoyed performing in musicals and as a feature soloist in several musical productions.

Michelle was a preschool teacher for 33 years and was the owner of Rainbow Express and helped to found Eastmont Community School. Michelle loved working with her students and found great joy in her students’ view of life. She loved it when her students would meet her in the community; it was always a joyful reunion.

Michelle’s greatest love was her family. She loved holidays, birthdays and anytime the family got together. Michelle enjoyed cooking for her family, especially a St. Patrick’s Day meal. Michelle loved reading and thought it was a crime to throw a book away. She loved going junkin’ (looking for antiques) and enjoyed having lunch with her friends and school staff.

Michelle is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Bob and Melba Plummer; paternal grandparents, Harold Hackett and Kathryn Morris, formerly of Ash Grove, Missouri; her mother, Mary Crawford; and a sister-in-law, Melonnie Welch-Young. 

Michelle is survived by her father, Gene Hackett, formerly of Ash Grove; a brother, Michael Hackett; her husband, Patrick Welch; children: Spencer and Lindsay Welch; Ryan and Mackenzie Groshong; Ethan and Jayne Welch; Taos Young; and grandchildren Olivia, Blake, Marek, Madden and Monroe.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Foundry Church in Bend, Oregon.