The Detroit Regional Chamber remembers dear friends, supporters, and regional champions Joe Welch and Larry Marantette following their passings in recent weeks.
Remembering Friends of the Chamber and Regional Leaders Joe Welch and Larry Marantette
July 3, 2025
Joe Welch had an accomplished career in Detroit, driving innovation as a leader at DTE Energy and ITC Holdings, which he founded, and from where he retired in 2016 as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. He served on the Chamber’s Board of Directors from 2010 to 2017, including a term as Board Chair and Chair of the Mackinac Policy Conference. His company has been a Chamber member for 22 years and a sponsor of the Mackinac Policy Conference and other events over the years. Welch also served on the Board of Directors of the Detroit Economic Club and as a Trustee of Lawrence Technological University. View tributes and arrangements here.
Joe Welch (left) as Chair of the 2013 Mackinac Policy Conference with Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Sandy K. Baruah (right).
Larry Marantette’s stewardship of Downtown Detroit’s development cannot be overstated. His engagement and support of the Chamber speak to that well. He was the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of the then-Greater Downtown Partnership, which became the Downtown Detroit Partnership in 2005. He served on the Chamber’s Board of Directors from 1999 to 2019 and was actively involved on board committees. His company, Taktix Solutions, has been a Chamber member since 2001. Since 1997, Marantette supported all of the Chamber headquarters moves, including the move to One Kennedy Square in 2023. He participated in Leadership Detroit IX and spoke with many classes over the years. In addition to his board role at the Chamber, he served on the boards of the Detroit Athletic Club, United Way of Southeast Michigan, and the 100 Club. View tributes and arrangements here.
Pictured left to right: Larry Marantette, Karen Belans (Detroit Regional Chamber), Karen O’Donoghue (Taktix Solutions), Stephan Kielmann (Detroit Regional Chamber)
The Chamber team extends its condolences to their friends and families. Their lasting impact on the city and the Detroit Region won’t soon be forgotten.