Joseph “Joe” Welch, a visionary in the energy sector and the founding CEO of ITC Holdings, passed away unexpectedly on June 25. He was 75.
Born on August 5, 1948, in Pittsburg, Kansas, Welch grew up in nearby Arma, where he developed a love for sports, cars, and community — passions that would follow him throughout his life. After graduating from high school, he earned a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Kansas, setting the foundation for a remarkable career in the utility industry.
Welch began his professional journey at Detroit Edison, rising through the ranks before making the bold decision in 2003 to found ITC Holdings. The company’s inaugural purchase — transmission assets from his former employer, DTE Energy — marked the beginning of what would become one of the most influential independent electric transmission firms in the United States.
Welch’s leadership was tested early with the historic Northeast blackout of 2003, a massive power failure that affected millions. Under intense pressure, Welch helped identify the root cause and worked tirelessly to restore service across the region. The crisis became a defining moment in his career, earning him widespread respect for his crisis management skills and technical expertise.
During his 13-year tenure as CEO, ITC Holdings grew rapidly, eventually listing on the New York Stock Exchange and expanding its operations across eight states. The company was acquired by Fortis Inc., a Canadian-based utility holding company, in 2016, at which point Welch retired from corporate leadership.
But for Welch, retirement didn’t mean slowing down.
A self-described adrenaline junkie with an eye for detail, Welch launched Joe Welch Racing, competing — and winning — in NHRA drag racing events. He also purchased a ranch in South Dakota, where he cultivated a wildlife habitat reflective of his passion for hunting and conservation. In Northern Michigan, where he spent summers with his family, Welch enjoyed boating on Lake Charlevoix, golf outings, hunting trips, and long conversations with friends and former colleagues.
He remained deeply involved in philanthropy, with particular focus on veterans, children’s health, education, and first responders. He funded track chairs for disabled veterans, enabling access to outdoor recreation, and supported engineering scholarships for students from rural Kansas — a nod to his roots and values. His support extended to multiple charitable organizations, always quietly and generously.
Those closest to Welch remember him as a fierce competitor with a generous heart. He was a mentor to many and a devoted family man who never missed a chance to cheer for his children at track meets or offer a guiding hand to someone in need. He took immense pride in coaching and supporting his children, and was a familiar — and loud — presence at cross country and track events across Michigan.
Welch’s Catholic faith deepened in retirement. He committed to daily prayer, Bible reading, and meditation, and remained a regular presence in church. His family takes solace in their belief that Joe is reunited in Heaven with his parents, Clayton and Antoinette, and his sister Evaughn — likely working on a new to-do list, as he always did.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Clare Welch; his children Ann Welch, Jennifer Welch, Jessica (Pete) Uher, Clayton (Katie) Welch, and Brad Andrews; and 10 grandchildren. He is also mourned by his nieces Johnni-Kay (Rob) Smiley, Joy (Barry) Rons, and Jeanene Boswell, as well as his brother-in-law John Boswell.
Joe Welch leaves behind a profound legacy — in business, in family, and in the hearts of all who knew him. His life was a powerful testament to leadership, loyalty, and the belief that no dream is too bold if pursued with heart and grit.