Felix F. Welka, 89, of Dunkirk, died peacefully in his sleep, Wednesday August 13, 2014, at the Chautauqua County Home.
He was born Nov. 27, 1924, in Dunkirk, first son of the late Frank and Dorothy (Wesolowski) Welka.
Felix was a graduate of St. Hyacinth's Elementary School and Dunkirk Industrial High School.
A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Army for four years and had fought in the Battle of the Bulge. After the battle, he spent seven months in a British hospital recovering. Among the many service medals he was awarded are the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.
Following the war, he found employment with the Dunkirk Post Office, where he worked for many years before retiring.
He enjoyed his bicycle, exercising and following the Buffalo Bills.
Felix was a kind and gentle man and was very generous to many charitable and religious organizations, including St. Hyacinth's Church and school, the Columban Sisters, the Passionist Fathers, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Meals on Wheels and the Northern Chautauqua Foundation.
He was very grateful for the gentle and loving care he received in his seven years at St. Columban's and three months at the Chautauqua County Home.
Surviving are a sister, Joan Jozwiak of Williamsville; and brother, Adrian A. (Gail) Welka of Dunkirk along with several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Francis Welka.
At Felix's request, there will be no visitation and the burial will be private. A Mass of Celebration of his life will be held at St. Columban's at a later date to be announced.
Arrangements are by the R. Mackowiak Funeral Home Inc., 56 East Doughty Street in Dunkirk.
You may leave a message of remembrance for the family at www.rmackowiak.com.
By the Observer
