Robert Francis Welsch, 87, of La Crosse and formerly of Prairie du Chien,  passed away on March 20, 2017 at Eagle Crest South in La Crosse.  He was born on July 2, 1929 in Prairie du Chien, WI. the son of Leo and Adella (Minney) Welsch.

He served in the U.S. Naval Reserve, was an Army combat veteran of the Korean War, and was a member of the Wisconsin National Guard for over 30 years.  He worked as a police officer for the Prairie du Chien Police Department for 24 years.

He was an active member of the Prairie du Chien and La Crosse Eagles Clubs and was inducted into the Wisconsin State Eagles Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne of La Crosse; two daughters, Patrice Stotesbery, Lesley (John) Just of La Crescent, MN; son, Dan of La Crosse; eight grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Charles, John; son, Thomas; and granddaughter, Kimberly.

The family would like to express thanks to the caring staff at Eagle Crest South and Gundersen Hospice.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, March 24 with visitation from 9:30 until 10:30 in the Marian Chapel at the Cathedral St Joseph the Workman, 530 Main Street, La Crosse.  Msgr. Charles Stoetzel will celebrate mass.  Interment will follow in at the Catholic Cemetery with military honor provided by the American Legion Post 52.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.  Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.