David E. Wellman

David E. Wellman, age 77, of Indian River passed away Monday, February 20, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born June 23, 1939 in Taylor, MI, the son of Ralph E. and Mary V. (Walker) Wellman. On July 9, 1960 in Lincoln Park, MI, Dave married Miriam A. Sharkey.

Dave graduated from Taylor High School in 1957.  In 1959 went to work for the Michigan Conservation Department and in 1961 took a leave of absence to enlist in the U.S. Navy. He had served as a Radioman aboard the USS Compton DD705 Destroyer in the DESRON fleet stationed out of Newport, RI.  He was honorably discharged in 1963 and was proud to have served our nation.  In 1972 he graduated from Michigan Technological University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry. He then went to work for the Department of Natural Resources working throughout Michigan, making lasting friends wherever he and Miriam moved. He spent the last 21 years of his career working out of the Indian River office and retired in 1995 as the assistant forest manager. Upon retirement, he became a private forestry consultant and finally retired in January of 2016.  

Dave was a very active member of the Indian River United Methodist Church, the Michigan Forest Association and the Employers Support of the Guard and Reserve. He enjoyed playing racquetball, pickleball, turkey hunting, cutting and splitting wood, being in the woods of northern Michigan and visiting friends all over the country.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Miriam of Indian River, two daughters, Robin (Curt) Reynolds of Boyne City and Kelly (Pat) Kolb of Indian River, three sisters, JoAnn Hathorne of Northville, Sue (Dick) Dulde of Milwaukee and Kim (Michael) Wellman-Welsh of Lutz, FL, one brother, Greg (Debbie) Wellman of Brighton, six grandchildren, Katie (Matt) Karlson of Indian River, Steven (Ana) Kolb of Topinabee , Sarah Kolb of Indian River and Keegan, Mitchell and Garrit Reynolds, all of Boyne City and three great grandchildren, Calvin Karlson, Norah Kolb and Isaiah Karlson. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Ralph Wellman.

Dave was a man after God’s own heart who loved his church family. He exemplified a servant the way Jesus modeled. He loved in a way that God intended for all. He experienced life, he didn’t just live it. If there was an opportunity to help or visit, he always took it. He loved his family, but more importantly, he loved his father in Heaven. In his last days, he made his peace with God; he was ready to enter into eternity. No more suffering, no more tears, no more pain, no more worries. He is dancing on streets of gold. He is singing, actually, he is probably whistling, along with choirs of angels. He will be greatly missed and grieved by those who are still here; but, all who have known him will carry a part of his legacy. 

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at 1:30 PM at the Indian River United Methodist Church with Pastor Patti Harpole officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions in Dave’s name may be directed to the church or the Michigan Forest Association (MFA). Arrangements are being handled by the Lintz Funeral Home.

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