A celebration of life was held for Ben “Big Ben” Welch at The Axe Hole on Thursday, July 21.

Welch worked for 104.7 The Bull and WBBZ, and was known as “The Voice of Tonkawa Bucs football.” Welch passed away suddenly on Saturday, July 16. He was 36-years old.

In Welch’s memory and to celebrate his life, the event at The Axe Hole was organized to gather Welch’s friends. Guests signed in on a football displayed with photos of Welch, and I’d Smoke That BBQ was on hand to provide dinner.

A silent auction was held during the evening with items from numerous donors including Flink Customs, Busy Bee Flowers & Gifts, Wes & Willow Boutique, Rocky’s Hot Mess Express, Wentz Golf Course, Ponca City Main Street, Cast Iron & Co, PC Provisions, Honeybee Boutique, PC Quarterback Club, The Hub, TS Fork, Spray’s Jewelry, Farha, Bob Hurley, PC Chamber of Commerce, and Tonkawa Public School.

All proceeds from the event went to help Welch’s family. An estimated $3,500 was raised during the evening.