Welch, former NYTBDF director, dies at 72

William H. Welch, retired Executive Director of the New York Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund, died May 14 at his home in Geneseo, N.Y. He was 72.

Welch, born in Rochester, N.Y., was instrumental in promoting New York’s original Thoroughbred Fund legislation while working for the Breeders Service Bureau of the State Racing Commission. Welch retired as Executive Director—formerly called “Executive Administrator”—of the New York Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund.

Welch, who was an avid Fox Hunter with the Genesee Valley Hunt Club and a member of St. Mary’s Church in Geneseo, also served as Livingston County Deputy Sherriff and a Geneseo volunteer fireman in the 1960s. He is survived by his, partner, Peter Mendiola; sisters, Martha (Eric) Myer of Boyce, Va., and Sheila Chanler of Geneseo; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and his canine companion, Bruno.

Donations in Welch’s memory may be made to the Geneseo Ambulance Fund, or to Teresa House, also located in Geneseo.