Foster Care & Extended Foster Care, Juvenile Justice

In Memoriam - YLC Mourns Passing of Thomas A. Welch

We would like to take a moment to say goodbye to our dear friend and former Board President Thomas A. Welch, who passed away this May after losing a month-long battle with Leukemia.  Tom served as Board President from 1990 to 2003 and was a Board Member for over 20 years.  He was a fierce advocate for at-risk youth and due process and a staunch supporter of the Youth Law Center.  He guided our organization through challenging times, helping to make tough decisions, always with devotion to the highest principles.  With Tom’s passing we have lost a good friend and wise ally.

Tom was a graduate of Harvard Law School and had a 30 year career at Brobeck, Phleger & Harrison.  In 1995 he retired from the law firm and enjoyed time as an Arbitrator.  He was a member of many organizations including the American Law Institute, American Arbitration Association, and the Bar of The Supreme Court of the United States.  He was a diehard Oakland A’s fan and great friend to all who knew him.

Most of all, Tom will be remembered as a loving husband to his wife Ann of 52 years, who preceded him in death, and a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his brother Larry Welch, his children Jon (Sonia), Michael (Sophie), and Susan (Claude), and his three grandchildren Garrett, Andrew, and Dax.