Hall of Fame
Induction Class of 2013
Football
Jim Welker came to Montgomery from Elkins, WV, and enjoyed an
athletic career worthy of enshrinement in the WVU Tech Athletics
Hall of Fame. “Tank,” as he was affectionately known by his teammates,
was a stalwart football player on both the offensive and
defensive lines. In an era where athletes played on both sides of the
ball, Jim Welker established himself as a force to be reckoned with
in the trenches.
Jim “Tank” Welker played offensive and defensive tackle from the
1953 through 1956 seasons, earning All-Conference recognition for
the high level of his play. During his tenure he helped the Golden
Bears turn their fortunes around, and lead them to winning records
his final three years at Tech. His work-ethic and intensity were well
known, and according to his beloved teammates he played as hard
in practice as he did in games. Years later Tank’s teammate Carl
“Bear” Cookerly memory of the battles the two of them had during
drills in practice were still fresh.
Upon graduation from Tech Jim Welker looked to give back, and
served his community in a number of capacities that brought him
in close contact with those who could most benefit from his discipline,
leadership, and loyalty. He returned home to Elkins H.S. and
taught classes and coached there until 1972, In 1972 he worked as
a federal parole and probation officer, as well as a police dispatcher,
before moving on to the Appalachian Mental Health Center where
he remained until his retirement. During and after those times Jim
served as a member and President of the Elkins Fraternal Order of
Police, was a member of the Odd Fellows, as well as a member of
the men’s fellowship of the United Methodist Church in Elkins.
Jim “Tank” Welker married the former Geneva Bennett and raised
three beloved daughters, Catherine Wentzel, Sheila Rexrode, and
Dana Welkerwood.
