Clark was born in Dover, N.H. He was a 1957 graduate from Oyster River High School and was the class president.

He was an Airborne Ranger who served in the 1st Infantry Division and Special Forces. He spent over 31 years serving his country as a U. S. Army Soldier, Teacher and Leader. Lt. Col. Welch was an inductee to the Ranger Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars with “V” device, Bronze Stars with “V” device, the Legion of Merit, many other citations and awards, and is a member of the Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society.

Those closest to him remember him as a brave soldier and a natural born leader. He was known for his absolute integrity. He was funny, and a great story teller. He loved military service and teaching others. He was also an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed camping and hiking, and was a Hut Boy on Mount Washington.

Survivors include Lacy, his loving wife of 53 years, and family.

Internment services with full military honors are being planned at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers please contribute to the USO or The Salvation Army.

His memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. A time of fellowship will be held immediately following his memorial service at Buzzy’s in Welton. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at Rock Island Arsenal National Cemetery.

Karl Christian was born on January 29, 1941 in Clinton County, Iowa to Karl and Margarethe (Hoffman) Dona. He graduated in 1959 from Lost Nation High School. After graduation he farmed and attended Clinton County Community College and Iowa State University earning his Farm Operation Degree in 1963. He served in the United States Army and faithfully and honorably served in Vietnam from 1967-1968. Karl was a combat Infantry Soldier with the 1st Infantry; Charlie Co 2nd Battalion 28th Infantry “Black Lions.” He was honored to attend the Honor Flight. He was a member of the Menzo Widle American Legion Post 0381 of Lost Nation where he served as Past Commander for several years. Over 55 years ago he was united in marriage
to the love of his life Patricia Benischek at St. James Catholic Church in Toronto. Karl and his wife farmed for many years in Clinton County, Iowa.

He enjoyed playing cards and visiting with his old Iowa friends and new friends in Florida. He was a handyman and liked to fix up anything that needed it. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he loved spending time with them and his family. Karl was always telling jokes and could put a smile on anyone’s face.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Patricia of West Melbourne, FL, two daughters; Karla (Greg) Frede of Grafton, WI, Brenda (Gary) Holderness of North Liberty, IA, a son-in-law
John (Janice) Bishop of Mount Vernon, eight grandchildren; Alison Frede, Collin Frede, Emily Frede, Amanda Holderness, Bradley Holderness, Christopher Holderness, Eva Bishop, and John
Bishop, two brothers; John (Esther) Dona of Arkon, NY, Robert (Cynthia) Dona of Troy, MI, a sister Anna (Curtis) Pilgrim of Thomsen, IL and many special nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a daughter Linda Dona Bishop.

Anthony was a loving, selfless, loyal family man and patriarch of the family. Anthony enjoyed gardening, grilling, classic cars, traveling, fixing and building almost anything imaginable, as well as spending time with his many friends and family. His grandchildren were his pride and joy.

He was predeceased by his sister Lillian Lund in 2020, his father Gino Funaro in 2013, and his mother Giuseppina Adovasio Funaro in 2007. He is survived by his wife Patricia Funaro of 50 years, his son Anthony of Pennsylvania, daughters Linda Johnson of Fords, Denise Psoinos and husband Teddy Psoinos of New York, sister Marie Moni and brother in law Sal Moni of Barnegat, grandchildren Michael, Lia, Anthony, James, Sofia and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind numerous friends from all different periods of his life.

Corky received his bachelor’s degree and later taught JROTC at C. Manual High School in Peoria, IL. Corky proudly served his country as a career member of the United States Marines for 4 years and the United States Army for 20 years. He was a member of the 28th Infantry Black Lions First Division. He retired as a Major in 1986.
Corky enjoyed improving his homestead but spending time with his children and grandchildren meant more to him than anything.

In addition to Maryann, his spouse of over 50 years, Corky is survived by: two sons, Jim (Marcy) Davis of Soldotna, AK, and Victor (Sandra) Davis of Columbia; one daughter, Heather (Demetrius)Vance of Foristell; one brother, Steven Davis of Columbia; two sisters, Vickie Fletcher of Mokane and Dorla (Bill) Claypool of Versailles; grandchildren, Alexia Steck, Kaylee (Todd) Bell, Sharon Steck, Destiny Davis, Haley (Bailey) Davis, Summer Davis, Emma Davis, Devon Vance, Amber Vance, Maddy Davis and Dekker Davis, as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

It is indeed sad news that we have received from Dave Berry. Dave informed us of the passing of our Black Lion Brother, Jim Deegan. Jim served with 2/28th 67-68 and was a great combat leader. The last reunion Jim attended was the one in Anaheim California in 2014 and it was great to see him again. Below is what Dave sent us:

I got a message from his sister that Jim Deegan passed away on 2/6/2016. He was a platoon leader with 2/28th in ’67-’68 (he was my Recon platoon leader in early ’68) and then was promoted to CPT and served as Alpha 6 until he was wounded and evacuated in June ’68. He went back for another tour as a company commander with 2/18th in ’69-’70. He was a good guy and will be missed. Dave Berry LTC (Ret.) ANC

Thanks again Dave Berry for notifying us. If anyone has a photo of Jim please send to us at president@28thinfantry.org and we will publish with Jim’s obituary.