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Paula Jo Welch, a beloved mother, partner and friend, passed away peacefully on Jan. 24, 2025, in Butte, Montana. She was born on March 24, 1957, in Blair, Nebraska, to Vernon Penry and Pat Comstock. Paula dedicated much of her life to caring for others as a respiratory therapist at Blair Community Hospital, where she made a lasting impact on the lives she touched.

Paula had a deep and unwavering faith, which she carried with her throughout her life. Her love for animals was boundless — whether it was her cats, dogs, birds or fish, she cherished them as part of her family. For many years, Paula took great joy in raising birds and fish, and they were a source of pride and comfort for her. She found peace and serenity in nature, often saying it was where she felt closest to her faith and at her most content.

In the early 2010s, Paula made the bold decision to move to Montana, a place she had long dreamed of calling home. There, she fell in love with the breathtaking beauty of “Big Sky Country,” and it was in Montana that she met George Orcutt, who stood by her side through her final days. Paula embraced life to the fullest in her later years, finding joy in new adventures yet always staying true to the values she held dear.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon Penry, Bill and Pat Comstock, and her step-brother Bernie Comstock. She is survived by her son, Tim Welch, and her daughter Becky Wentz, her partner George Orcutt and a host of extended family, including Denny and Carol Penry, Lonnie and Jodi Penry, Randy and Coleen Penry, John Penry, Kathy and Scott Smith and Glenda Pinkard, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and grandchildren.

In honor of Paula’s deep love for animals, her family invites those who wish to make a lasting tribute to donate in her name to the Blair Animal Shelter, a cause that meant the world to her.

There will be no formal service, but Paula’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, her spirit of kindness, faith and love for animals.

Rest in peace, Paula. Your legacy of love and compassion will never be forgotten.

~~~Obituaries courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair, Nebraska Public Library~~~

Find a Grave Memorial #279504650