Almost a year has passed without my awareness of Phil’s death. Seeing the post of CSB/SJU Christmas concert brought him to mind. I was blessed to have him for a music prof and a conductor of concert choir and Campus Singers. Even though I did not become the music major he encouraged me to be, he touched my life deeply. I cherish the memories I have of him during my time as a CSB student and staff member.
Philip A. Welter
July 5, 1937 – January 22, 2022
Philip Anthony Welter was born in Perham, Minnesota on July 5, 1937, to Agnes and Ambrose Welter. Phil spent his childhood in Perham with his parents, and his two sisters, Maureen and Kathleen. Phil grew up attending St. Henry’s Catholic High School proudly wearing the Perham High School’s “Yellowjacket” letterman’s jacket which he earned as an accomplished four-sport athlete.
After high school, Phil studied music at St. John’s University and in 1960 received his Master’s Degree in music from Notre Dame. He then moved to St. Cloud to begin a lifetime career of teaching music, first at Cathedral High School. The rest of his career was spent as a professor of music at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph where one of his prized activities was leading the Campus Singers. He deeply dedicated himself to not just being a professor, but an inspirational leader to countless students. It was a common occurrence for former students, many years after taking a class with Phil, to approach him in the community to say "hello" and "thank you".
On August 13, 1966, Phil married the love of his life, Katherine A. Welter, at Holy Angels Catholic Church in St. Cloud. Together they raised a family of four sons (Jason, Tony, Joel, and Colin) and a daughter, Shana. Phil and Katherine made their family home in St. Joseph, MN. Phil’s eye for adventure took his family on countless travels that ranged from car camping trips to semesters abroad in England and Ireland, to summers in the Bahamas. He was a lover of both eating and cooking cuisines from around the world, classical music, and theater.
Never a man to sit back and watch the world go by, Phil spent his life creating. He created the Minnesota Center Chorale, bringing choral music to countless musicians and audience members since 1973. He also was a co-founder of the Quite Light Opera Company which brought fun and creative community theater to the St. Cloud area for over 25 years. Phil was at the helm of the arts and education community for countless other artistic endeavors over the years. He worked tirelessly in service to his community as the 1993 founder of District 742’s Local Education Activities Foundation (LEAF), and prior to that as a district school board member. His mark on the arts and on education in the St. Cloud area is immeasurable.
All of this he did with a sparkle in his eye, a song on his breath, and a seemingly tireless work ethic. His all-in commitment to everything that he touched resulted in a life that was beautiful, impactful, inspirational, and deep in its reach. His family, friends, students, and community will long be affected by the legacy Phil created and this legacy will forever live in the soul of everyone he touched.
Philip Anthony Welter, 84, of St. Joseph MN, passed away on Saturday, January 22, 2022. He is survived by his sisters, Maureen (David) and Kathleen Welter; children, Jason Welter (Kelli), Shana Holliday (Matt), Tony Welter (Becky), Joel Welter, and Colin Welter; and grandchildren, Mason and Ruby Holliday and Brodey and Kendal Welter. He was preceded in death by his wife, Katherine. A memorial celebration will be held at a later date.
Guestbook
“Mr. Welter” was one of my music mentors and was a huge influence on my decision to major in Voice & Music Ed. in college. I had a 36 year career as a music teacher, choral director, music director/vocal coach & performer in musical theatre, much of which I continue to enjoy post-retirement.
He was an amazing musical talent and had a unique gift in sharing his love of the arts and variety of interests – a Renaissance man. He was so very patient with us, expanded our musical horizons, demanded hard work and had an engaging smile and quirky sense of humor.
I have not seen him in many years, but when I would run into him at arts events and conventions, he always remembered me and had time to chat.
R.I.P., dear friend and mentor.
Me Welter took me under his wing at Cathedral. I worked for him in his office and babysat for Jason. He assisted me in getting a music scholarship at the U of M. He was the first positive male authority figure in my life. He was like a surrogate father to me. His attentiveness, consideration and kindness was like no other teacher. He made my world bigger and better. He has always remained in my heart and thoughts.
Phil and I were classmates and members of the St. John’s University Men’s Chorus from 1955 to 1959. Many good memories there. Sorry our paths diverged after that. He must have been a fabulous friend to many. His family must know of his many friends at St. John’s.
I knew Phil as a colleague and friend. He was a gracious and kind man, a fabulous musician and always had a great smile. The world is better because of Phil Welter, and I am grateful that I knew him.
I had the pleasure of singing in Mr. Welters Campus Singers choir for most of my time at the College of St. Benedict. I was able to travel with this wonderful group to England, Wales and Ireland. We also had the opportunity to meet famous composers and our group had a wonderful time exploring and learning. I am deeply grateful to have been able to work with Phil and experience his many talents.
Phil was a inventive and open conductor and enjoyed his positive energy. One concert I most remember singing in was LA FIESTA DE LA POSADA (1975) https://www.davebrubeck.com/la-fiesta-de-la-posada, Some how I think Dave Brubeck may have shown up personally or in spirit. Maybe so, searched to see if any history of that on line. No results on the MCC Facebook Page. Hope to sing with you again on the other side Mr Phil and Thanks for your gift of sharing music…….
My condolences on the passing of this great man. I was in his music theory class during college and I greatly enjoyed his teaching, even at 8:00am. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Services
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Philip Anthony Welter, 84, of St. Joseph MN, passed away on Saturday, January 22, 2022. He is survived by his sisters, Maureen (David) and Kathleen Welter; children, Jason Welter (Kelli), Shana Holliday (Matt), Tony Welter (Becky), Joel Welter, and Colin Welter; and grandchildren, Mason and Ruby Holliday and Brodey and Kendal Welter. He was preceded in death by his wife, Katherine. A memorial celebration will be held at a later date.