Madison, Indiana, mayor Damon Welch dies

MADISON, Ind. (WDRB) -- Damon Welch, who had served as the mayor of Madison for the last seven years, died Wednesday.

A release from the city said Welch woke early Wednesday with a health problem and was taken to King's Daughters' Hospital, where he died. He was 66.

"There's still a lot of disbelief, a lot of grieving here at city hall," said Dan Dattilo, who is serving as Madison's interim mayor after Welch's passing. "We don't know exactly what happened. I do know he fell ill this morning at his home. He was taken to our local hospital, and then he passed there."

Welch was a Madison native who had been mayor since 2012. He also served as a city councilman and was a member of the Plan Commission. His assistant, Tammy Acosta, said he was nearing the end of his second term as mayor and had no plans to run for a third term.

Flags were lowered to half staff at city properties in Madison. Ribbons have also been placed outside City Hall.

Gov. Eric Holcomb released a statement praising Welch:

“Damon was a tireless public servant who was passionate about his city and the state of Indiana. As a veteran, small businessman and city leader, he nurtured relationships of all types to improve the lives of all of those around him. Janet and I are heartbroken for his family, friends and the Madison community. We ask that all Hoosiers join us in offering prayers and condolences to the Welch family.”

Indiana Republican Party Chairman Kyle Hupfer released a statement honoring the two-term mayor:

"Today, Indiana lost a true public servant with the passing of Mayor Damon Welch, a leader who loved Madison and loved serving his hometown. He took great ideas and ran with them, and the results show as Madison shines today as a vibrant community that continues to win statewide and national accolades. Mayors and leaders across Indiana looked up to the example he set for leadership and for service. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, colleagues and the people of Madison."

By law, the President Pro Tempore of the City Council, Dattilo, will be acting mayor until the vacancy is filled by the Republican party caucus. Dattilo said he expects to serve as interim for about two weeks until the vacancy is filled.

"Our city will get through this really tough time," he said. "We really ask for prayers for the mayor's wife and his kids and just our whole community."

Welch was a U.S. Air Force veteran who is survived by his wife Ginny, three children and three grandchildren.

"He's going to be remembered as a father, a husband, a grandfather," Dattilo said. "I think that his legacy will be long, and it will be revered. He's going to be remembered well."

Morgan-Nay Funeral Centre is handling arrangements.