Newbury, VT-  Kenneth Robert Welch, 80, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, December 5, 2016.

Ken was born in Haverhill, NH on February 28, 1936, to Plin J. and Frances (Learned) Welch.  He graduated from Newbury High School, Class of 1954.  He married Barbara Boyce on August 19, 1960.

Ken was a school bus driver for the Newbury and Oxbow school districts for more than fifty years, retiring in February 2016.  He was also a sexton for the Newbury cemeteries for over fifty years.  He had a dump run for many years and sold eggs, too.

Along with his wife, Barb, he actively participated in the Newbury Alumni and their school reunions.  They enjoyed their camp on Tinney Pond and watching their favorite game shows.   Ken enjoyed his large garden and hunting.  He was an avid New England Patriot fan.  He had been a Little League coach.

Ken was predeceased by his parents, Plin and Frances Welch; a grandson, Robert Batten; and his sister, Beverly Welch.

He is survived by three children, Kathy Butler and husband Joseph of Enosburg Falls, VT, James Welch and wife Jenn of Milton, VT, and Karen Batten and husband Randy of  Topsham, VT; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Calling hours will be on Sunday, December 11, from 1-3 PM with a memorial service beginning at 3 PM, at Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH.

Burial will be at a later date in Oxbow Cemetery, Newbury.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Make-a-Wish Foundation-Vermont, 431 Pine Street, Burlington, VT 05401.