Richard I. Welter, 64, of Bluffton, a former resident of Swanton, Ohio, passed away Monday evening, Jan. 4, 2010, at the Bluffton Regional Medical Center. Mr. Welter was born June 26, 1945, in Toledo, Ohio, to Jacob and Esther(Langenderfer) Welter. He farmed since an early age, and kept busy repairing lawn equipment. He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Bluffton. Survivors include his sister, Carol (Dave) Zenk of Bluffton; a brother, Charles (Darlene) Welter of York, Pa.; and three nieces, Courtney Welter, Jessica Welter, and Ashley (Jay) Junkin. He is also survived by his faithful four-legged companion, Jethro. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother; and his sister-in-law, Judy Welter. A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Assumption, Ohio, with Father Ron Schock officiating. Preferred memorials are to the Family Hospice of Northeast Indiana, 265 W. Water St., Berne, IN 46711. Online condolences can also be posted at www.weigelfuneralhomes.com