Harold L. Welk

Harold L. “Reds” Welk, 86, born February 28, 1940 in Hanover, PA, passed away Monday, March 9, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family.

He was the oldest child of David M. and Audrey V. (Barnhart) Welk.  Harold shared 64 cherished years of marriage with his devoted wife, Marie (Smith) Welk.  Together they built life focused on their family, hard work, and simple joys.

He is survived by his daughters Donna (Rick) Tracy, Joanne (Gary) Greendale, Sheila (Larry) Parker, and Kathy (Denny) Pritt.  He was a proud grandfather to Eric (Mindy) Tracy, Beth (Kevin) Weems, Sara (Nick) Keeny, Carli Greene, Rachel (Cameron) Meeks, Ryan (Bailee) Wilson, Lauren Pritt, and Hannah Pritt – and a great-grandfather to ten great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter.

Harold is also survived by his siblings Beverly Bankert, Linda (Dick) Fields, and Dale (Georgia) Welk.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Larry Welk and Robert Welk, his grandson Nicolas Goodman, and numerous brothers-and sisters in-law.

He was raised as a member of Christ United Church of Christ in Littlestown and later attended St. Joseph’s Church in Hanover.  A graduate of Eichelberger High School Class of 1958, Harold proudly served his country in the United States Navy.  He was a good provider and dedicated his career as a lineman with Met-Ed for 36 years until his retirement in 2000.

Harold truly took pleasure in nature and the great outdoors where he enjoyed hunting, camping, and especially fishing.  After retirement, Harold and Marie traveled throughout the United States and Canada creating lasting memories along the way.

He was a talented woodworker and took pride in caring for and remodeling his family home until his move to Cross Keys Village in 2022.  Harold also found joy in music and could sometimes be found playing his resonator guitar.

Reds will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, witty sense of humor, and deep love for his family.  Following cremation by Kenworthy Funeral Home & Crematory, burial will be private upon his request.  If desired, donations can be made in his memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.  Memories can be shared with the family at www.kenworthyfh.com.

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