Edward Louis Welch

Edward “Joe” Louis Welch made his final journey Home on Thursday, August 12, 2025.
Born on Sunday, August 16, 1936, to Eddie Izar and Catherine Welch, Joe was the fourth of five children, growing up alongside siblings Maxine, Margaret, Virginia "Babe", and Robbie. Nicknamed "Joe" by his mother's brother as a namesake, he later found his lifelong love in Myrtle Osuna. They married in 1956 and built a family together, raising five children: Linda, Joe Jr., Janice, Juanita, and Richard.
Joe’s professional life was marked by resilience and steadfast determination. Initially, to provide for his growing family and ultimately, to secure a more favorable future for his people. He spent two years at Convair, helping build F-106 jets, and then joined SDG&E for a year. Eventually, he became a journeyman plumber and notably, the first Native American member of the Local 230 Union. Joe successfully opened E. Welch Construction Company which continues to be operated today.
While building a career to support his family, Joe also dedicated years of service to his tribe. He served as Chairman for two terms, from 1970-1976 and again from 1981-1988. He played a vital role as one of the founding members of the Gaming Commission, serving as Chairman of the Gaming Commission from 1996-2003. Later, he continued to demonstrate his commitment to tribal leadership and served as a Council Member from 2003-2016. These roles showcase his dedication to the betterment of his tribe and community.
Beginning in 1981, while Joe served his second term as Chairman, he took on the State to secure the right to allow high stakes bingo on Barona and all California Indian Reservations. Joe’s legacy is that of self-sufficiency for the people of Barona. He exceeded even his own expectations of making life better for his community.
On the reservation, Joe established two recreational businesses – the Barona Speedway and a mini motocross track. Both of which continue to be enjoyed by the Barona tribe and the surrounding community.
Joe was often seen cruising around in his Chevy truck, enjoying a pastry at morning Coffee Club while chatting with family and friends, and staying in the know about all things related to construction and water. Joe’s deep commitment and comprehensive knowledge of all things Barona will be forever missed and, for those in the know, Coffee Club will never be the same.
Joe was preceded in death by his wife Myrtle, his daughter, Juanita, and son, Joe, Jr. He is survived by three of his children, Linda, Janice, and Richard; his ten grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
Rosary will be held on Thursday, August 21 at 7:00 pm at Bonham Brothers & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service - 321 12th St, Ramona, CA 92065. Funeral will be on Friday, August 22 at 10:00 am at the Barona Mission Church - 1054 Barona Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040.

Bonham Bros. & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service assisted the family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward Louis Welch, please visit our floral store.