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Stirling Keith Welch, 80, died at his Albuquerque home on Sunday, January 9, 2011 following a battle with cancer. Stirling was born on February 5, 1930 in Parkston, South Dakota to Joseph and Bessie Welch. After high school graduation he joined the Air Force and was stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base. He trained and served as an airborne radar mechanic. He and Eunice "Cathy" Vahle were married at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Albuquerque on September 16, 1953. After his military service Stirling attended the University of New Mexico and worked 25 years for Albuquerque Gravel Products in their data-processing department. In retirement he served as a volunteer camp ground host for the National Forest Service in Jemez Falls and as a volunteer at the Balloon Fiesta. He also kept busy collecting, restoring, and exhibiting antique engines. A loyal member of Immanuel Lutheran Church he served the church in many capacities. Preceded in death by his only brother, John, Stirling is survived by his wife of 57 years, Cathy; a sister-in-law, Jeanette "Skip" Welch, of Parkston, SD; a brother-in-law, Jerry Vahle (Lynn), and a sister-in-law, Marion Wilson (Brian), all of Denver; He is also survived by a cousin in Las Cruces, NM, Bill Mattas (Janet); five nieces; four nephews; many cousins and a host of friends. Services will be held on Friday, January 14, 2011, 11:00 a.m., at Immanuel Lutheran Church with burial at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the building fund of Immanuel Lutheran Church or a charity of the giver's choice. Please visit the online guestbook for Stirling at www.RememberTheirStory.com. FRENCH 1111 University Blvd. NE (505) 843-6333
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