Joseph Edmond Welter

Joseph Edmond Welter, 87, of Adel, IA, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, following complications from chronic kidney disease and heart-related health issues. Joseph was born on July 31, 1938, in Des Moines, IA, to Joseph and Margaret Welter. He was the oldest of four children.

In 1959, Joseph moved to California to continue his education, attending trade school to study mechanical engineering. While living with his grandfather, Edmond Bliquez, in the San Fernando Valley, he became neighbors with the Deane family and met the love of his life, Claire Deane. Joseph and Claire were united in marriage on September 7, 1963.

Joseph and Claire returned to Iowa in 1971 and settled in Adel in 1972. Together, they raised three children: Kurt Welter, Kathleen Welter-McCauley, and Karl Welter. Joseph took great pride in maintaining a large garden and growing fruits and vegetables. He also enjoyed watching football and auto racing, as well as working on cars.

Joseph served for six years in the National Guard. Throughout his career, he worked as a vehicle and heavy-equipment mechanic for the military and various commercial organizations. He later dedicated more than 25 years of service to the United States Postal Service.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Claire; his children, Kurt Welter, Kathleen (Brad) McCauley, and Karl (Heidi) Welter; his siblings, Judy Battani, John Welter, and Janet (Bill) Kunkle; his grandchildren, Madelynn Welter and Connor McCauley; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place 10:00 A.M., Thursday, August 6, 2026 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Waukee, IA. A visitation will be one hour prior beginning at 9:00 A.M. at the church. Interment will follow at the Beaver Catholic Cemetery in Granger, IA. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com