Mark Welch of Clearwater, Florida, left this earthly life on September 12th, 2025 after an extended illness. Born October 23rd, 1965 to Walter E. “Tony” Welch and Nancy M. Scherrer of Syracuse, New York. Mark was predeceased by his parents; his sister Sarah Coburn Welch; and his brother Gregory H. Welch. Mark is survived by his brothers, Mike (Joan) Welch of Bradenton, Florida, George Welch of Cheshire, Connecticut, and David Welch of Syracuse, New York; his sisters Nancy (Bob) Congdon of Bradenton, Florida, and Martha (David) Bugin of Camillus, New York; as well as eleven nieces and nephews, and eight grand nieces and nephews.

Known for his friendship to all, passion for life, and incredible willpower to overcome all obstacles, Mark endured himself to all who were fortunate enough to come to know him. Growing up, Mark was always involved in sports. In high school, Mark was co-captain of the Corcoran gymnastics team, sectional and city champion in the all-around, third in the all-around at the New York State Championships, and earned twelve varsity letters during his high school career, Mark continued with gymnastics at Syracuse University, becoming captain in his senior year. He was noted as a “motivational leader and spark of the team.”

Suffering a spinal injury in 1996, which paralyzed him from the chest down, Mark set out to overcome his limitations. From driving an adaptive van, returning to college, and earning a Bachelors in Arts degree from the University of South Florida in 2001, to entering the workforce and living independently, Mark always showed a positive attitude beyond imagination, and quietly became a shining example of the desire to live ones life to the fullest. He was truly an inspiration to all who knew him.

A member of the Tampa Bay General’s quad rugby team, Mark (who later earned the nickname “Nina”) would meet and come to love a group of guys that became his lifelong friends. Vi, Rudy, Terry, Goldie, Uncle Joe, Mark, Justin, and others, all had the same zest to achieve without complaining and enjoy life to the fullest.

Each summer Mark looked forward to vacationing in Maine with family and friends on Orr’s Island, and growing his relationship with his many nieces and nephews. Mark once wrote, “I often like to go there in my mind, because the people are so sweet and kind, and it allows me to escape bad times and spaces.”

Mark was also a huge fan of the Tampa Bay Bucs and fantasy football- but being from central New York, there was no team or college that could compete with his hometown school, “The Cuse”.

Mark’s family is so thankful for the friendship, love and support given by a very special couple: Chris and Jesus. They are also so grateful for the care and support shown by the Morton Plant hospital staff, especially those in Morgan ICU, whose compassionate care for Mark was simply beautiful.

A celebration of Mark’s life is being planned on Orr’s Island, Maine at a future date. Details will be shared with family and friends.

Mark was able to continue playing competitive sports thanks to the support of the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF). This is a national organization that gives out equipment grants for disabled athletes in all sports, nationwide. We ask you to please consider donating to the Challenged Athletes Foundation or to Lifelink of Florida in honor and remembrance of Mark.