Samuel Welsch Obituary

Samuel Kirby 'Sam' Welsch of Lincoln, NE, was born on May 21, 1953, in Pawnee City, Nebraska. Despite his best efforts to procrastinate the inevitable, Sam passed away just after taking his last breath on July 17, 2025, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Though his time on earth was brief in years, the legacy attributed to his name spans generations and continents. Sam had a life-long connection with soil. Walking barefoot whenever possible kept him grounded. To continue his connection to the soil, Sam requested a private, natural burial. A celebration of life is being hosted by his family this fall, a date to be determined. He could not resist asking that The Hearse Song be included. Sam loved learning new things his entire life. He paused his education long enough to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, and went on to complete a Master of Science at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for a career that would leave an indelible mark on the global organic agriculture movement. A visionary and pioneer in his field, Sam founded OneCert in the United States and OneCert International in India – organic certification agencies that have helped shape standards and practices across borders. He was an outspoken advocate for maintaining soil integrity within organic farming, championing the belief that true organic begins with healthy soil. His work influenced countless farmers, regulators, and consumers who shared his commitment to sustainable agriculture. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sam lived life with passion and humor. He delighted in organic farming and gardening – not just as a vocation but as a way of life. He found joy and renewal in natural hot springs and saunas, often combining these with long bike rides or hikes through nature's quiet corners. Those who knew him well will remember not only his dedication to the land but also his fondness for telling bad Dad jokes – though whether they were about bad dads or simply bad jokes remains up for debate. Sam is lovingly remembered by his spouse, Patricia Spitzer, Lincoln – his third marriage proving that sometimes, indeed, the third time is a charm. He leaves behind four children: Daniel (Kristy), Ankeny, IA; Ember, Lincoln, NE; Peter, Lincoln, NE; and Theresa, Chantilly, VA; as well as grandchildren: Naomi, Ada, Matthew, Burton, and Charley. His siblings Mark (Bonnie), David (Deb), and Mary (Mike) survive him as well, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will carry forward memories of shared laughter and enduring connection. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Louise, and his son-in-law Jeremy Patterson. Sam once said that living a long life is not enough - living a good life is enough. By that measure-and by every seed he planted both literally and figuratively- his life was more than enough. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him. Memorials are suggested to: Food Bank of Lincoln, Spring Creek Prairie Audubon in Denton, NE. There will be a private family burial with a Celebration of Life Service to be held at a later date – To be Announced. Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services – Milford, NE.