Jean Ann Welling's Obituary
On July 21, 2023, beloved wife and mother Jean Ann Welling passed away from injuries resulting from a car accident. Born on December 14, 1964 to Keith and Mary (Gross) Loomis, Jean grew up in the Weidman area where she lived all her life. Jean’s purpose quickly came into focus when she met Russell Welling Jr. at the age of 14. She and Russ graduated High School and married in June of 1983, recently celebrating their 40th anniversary.
Jean was dedicated to her family and found great joy in her marriage to Russ and fulfillment as mother to their two children. Her job began in the morning, making sure her family had a full breakfast before school and work, greeting them home in the afternoon with a smile and a home cooked meal. Jean adored her children and cherished all the little knickknacks and crafts they would present her with, collecting her memories and putting them on display. Her walls and albums overflowed with these gifts as they grew more abundant through time and the grandchildren came along.
Jean showered her family with love, leaving little notes for them to discover throughout the day or entertaining them with silly mom jokes. She was very intentional in her care, always having what they needed when they needed it, even to the point of pulling out a bag of shredded cheese to the delight of her son and husband when there wasn’t any. Jean was a true helpmate to Russ, always there behind the scenes to assist in his success whether it was a sticky note with just the right info or a smile and hug at just the right time.
In 1999, Jean and Russ were able to make their dreams a reality, building their forever home together. On a given day, Jean could be spotted outside mowing the lawn, her favorite activity. Her love of the outdoors was matched by her love of cooking and caring for her family. Jean gave of herself tirelessly, recharging with Russ on their boat or in the quiet of their cabin up north in Cheboygan, a special haven for the two.
Anyone leaving the house or saying goodbye would be accompanied by Jean, waving from the threshold of their front door, flicking the porch light if it was dark. This simple little ritual was a capstone for Jean, showing that she was there for those she loved through to the end. She will be deeply missed.
Preceding Jean in death are her father, Keith and siblings, Dennis Loomis and Marcy Loomis.
Left to carry on her legacy is her beloved husband of 40 years, Russ; children; Mandi (Steve) O’Neil and Jesse (Becky) Welling; grandchildren, Austin, Boe, Madilynn, Jessa, Daisy-Mae, and Axle; sister, Teresa (Pat) Scully; her mother, Mary Loomis, and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be held on Thursday, July 27, at the Janowicz Family Funeral Home with Pastor Richard Taylor presiding. Visitation begins at 11am and the service starts at 1pm. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery in Weidman. In lieu of flowers donations may be directed to the family to be used according to their wishes.
What’s your fondest memory of Jean?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jean?
Share a story where Jean's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jean you’ll never forget.
How did Jean make you smile?