Thomas Welch, aged 73, was burned to death in a fire which destroyed the three-room cottage in which he lived alone in the rear of the home of his step-daughter, Mrs. Frank Valiensi, of Wilson Avenue Extension, at 2:30 o'clock this morning. The fire is believed to have started from an exploding oil lamp, although it was impossible to discover the origin of the blaze.

In addition to Mrs. Valiensi, he is survived by another step-daughter, Mrs. Anthony Nene and two daughters, Mrs. Edward Heany and Mrs. Joseph Priesel, all of this city. Mr. Welch also leaves two sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Gardner and Mrs. Mary Rigby of this city., 18 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Although he was born in Nashville, Tenn., he was brought to New Castle as a baby and spent most of his lifetime here. His wife, Catherine Gardner Welch, died seven years ago. Interment in St. Mary's Cemetery.