Christopher M. Welch

STERLING - Christopher M. Welch, 36, left us far too soon on Sunday, August 9, 2026. Born in Concord, and raised in Stow, MA, Chris was the cherished son of Anne (Braat) Welch, and the late Richard B. Welch.

He is survived by Ashley (Stone) Welch, his wife and partner of 13 years, and their precious 2-month-old daughter, Molly, who was the light of his life. Chris also leaves behind his brother, Alexander Welch, and best friend, Samuel K. Parker, who was his chosen brother of 22 years.

Finding his creative spirit early, Chris was a talented artist and entrepreneur, whose journey developed at Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, where he graduated in 2008. His passion for drawing flourished, leading him to the Art Institute of Boston, a division of Lesley University, where he earned his Bachelor of Fine Art in 2012.

Following his lifelong dream, Chris completed a tattoo apprenticeship at The Gallery Tattoo Studio in West Concord, MA, where he spent over a decade honing his craft, specializing in American traditional, neotraditional, bold color, and Japanese-style tattoos. He most recently joined the Black Watch Tattoo Gallery in Worcester in 2025. Chris also poured his creativity into working frequent tattoo conventions, commissioning paintings, and having multiple clothing design ventures throughout his career.

Chris was a full patch member of the Longriders Motorcycle Club and was known for his love of the open road, as well as his loyalty to his brotherhood. Whether you were family, a friend, or a brand-new client, Chris had an extraordinary gift for making people feel safe and valued. Many of those who sat in his tattoo chair found themselves sharing a laugh or meaningful conversation, a testament to his caring nature, kind heart, and ability to connect with people of all ages. In his final act of kindness, Chris became a tissue donor in the hopes that he may help others with the gift of life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made via check, in Chris’ memory, to New England Donor Services, 60 First Ave, Waltham MA 02451.

Visitation for Chris will take place on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 from 4-7 pm at Miles Funeral Home, 100 Worcester Road, Sterling, MA. A celebration of Chris’ life will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 11 a.m., at the funeral home. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor his memory and the indelible mark he left on our lives.

To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit his guestbook.