Memorial fund opened for family of late tree surgeon

Christopher Welch, 26, was reportedly about 50 feet up in a tree at 5954 Nowhere Road “topping it out” when the accident happened.

Welch was employed by New Urban Forestry. He leaves behind a fiancé, Jennifer, and a 4-year-old son, and a daughter due to be born in October.

Erica Welch, Chris’ sister, said her brother was a “superhero” in her eyes.

“He could turn anybody’s frown into a smile,” said Erica. “He was a loving partner, father, son and brother. He was one of the very few people who has a smile on their face to go work out in the extreme heat solely to provide for his family. He loved to spend his days off playing with his son Collin and spending quality time with his fiancé Jennifer.”
Erica said her brother enjoyed being an arborist.

“He loved being high up in the tree tops, and climbing and cutting down trees was his passion,” she said. “He was also very good at what he did. Unfortunately, being an arborist is a dangerous job and (Aug. 17) Chris was cutting off a tree top when the limb broke and hit him, killing him instantly.”

Erica asks that the community remember Chris’ fiancé and children and do what they can to help.

“Every little bit means the world, especially with Jennifer being due in October,” said Erica. “She and Chris had not gotten all the necessities needed to bring a baby girl into this world. Thank you so much for the support and the love everybody has given my family. It has been a huge loss for us, an unexpected tragedy. Chris Welch will truly be missed by so many he has touched.”

A trust fund has been opened at First American Bank in Athens in the name of “Chris Welch Memorial fund.”