Clayton Wetmore Obituary

Clayton Wetmore, 84, of Midland, died Sunday evening, Nov. 13, 2011, at the Mid-Michigan Medical Center after a short illness. He was born Nov. 12, 1927, in St. Charles, son of the late Clair and Rebecca (Minns) Wetmore. He was a 1945 graduate of St. Charles High School and attended the University of Michigan. He then attended Central Michigan University where he received his bachelor of science degree in 1950. He later returned to the University of Michigan where he received his master's degree.

Clayton served his country with the U.S. Army from 1946-1947. On Nov. 1, 1952, he married the former Lois Kennelly. Together they have shared the last 59 years together. After graduating from college in 1950, he started his teaching career at Flint Beecher High School. He was employed at The Dow Chemical Co. for one year before returning to teach at Central Intermediate and later at Jefferson Middle School. He went on to be assistant principal at Jefferson and principal at Jefferson before becoming principal at Midland High School in 1971. He became Director of Educational Administration in 1978 under Dr. George Owen and Dr. Arthur Frock.

Clayton retired from the Midland Public School System after many years of service in 1986. He and Lois enjoyed spending the summer months at Otsego Lake in Gaylord and they wintered in Florida for 25 years. They spent the fall and spring months in Midland, where they resided for 55 years.

Surviving besides his wife, Lois, are his three sons, Clair Wetmore of Gladwin, William Wetmore of Hemlock, and Richard Wetmore of Tucker, Ga.; two grandsons, Tony and Michael Wetmore; his brother-in-law, Gerald Kennelly of Saginaw; his sister-in-law, Rosemary Earley of Hemlock; many nieces and nephews; and many special cousins. He is also survived by a special aunt, Ruth Wetmore of Merrill.

In honoring Clayton's wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service to honor his life will take place at 1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011, from the Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 W. Wheeler St., Midland. Mr. David Engel will officiate. Mr. Wetmore's family will receive friends at the funeral home today from 4-7 p.m., and on Saturday from 12 p.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the donor's favorite charity.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Midland Daily News from Nov. 16 to Nov. 18, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Clayton Wetmore

12 Entries

Linda A RECTOR

September 29, 2021

For whatever reason, Mr. Wetmore came to my mind today. He was a favorite teacher at Central because he asked questions that really made me think.

Rhonda Siefke

November 23, 2011

I certainly remember Mr. Wetmore from Jefferson Intermediate...that was when the school first opened--he was always friendly. Sad to hear he has passed. Thoughts & Prayers to his Family. Rhonda Draves Siefke

Peter Aseritis

November 22, 2011

Mr. Wetmore was my 7th grade english teacher, and I remember doing a great amount of sentence diagrams (do they still do that?)in his class. He was also a great story teller, and I still remember him telling our class about deer hunting in Korea with a .50 cal machine gun when he was in the army. Mr. Wetmore -- Rest in paece! Peter Aseritis

Pat Crane

November 17, 2011

Clayt was my 7th grade teacher of English. I thoroughly enjoyed that class, and my friendship with him. My condolences to you and your family.
Pat Conner Crane

Terri Cepela

November 17, 2011

I am sorry to hear this news. He was a wonderful man and neighbor. I am writing on behalf of all my family members who knew him better than I did and are no longer with us, my dad, mom, and brother Walter.

Dan Heffernan

November 17, 2011

I didn't really know Mr. Wetmore personally as the principal at Midland High, but I respected him as many of us did. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Bob Ribble

November 16, 2011

Clayt hired me when I came to Midland in 1968 to teach at Jefferson and I have always been indebted to him for giving me a chance to be a part of a great school. We enjoyed talking sports and Clayt always kiddingly said that "hiring me was the only mistake he made as a principal." His sense of humor was always appreciated and he will be missed.

Dennis Gibbs

November 16, 2011

I remember well, back in '69 or '70 when Mr. Wetmore entered the bandroom at Jefferson, picked up a Sousaphone and began tooting with the band. It sounded so nice to have a bass horn with the Varsity band that I took up the same instrument myself shortly after.

Shelley Coats and Family

November 16, 2011

Thinking of you and the pain you feel, the grief you carry, and the tears you cry. Hoping you will find comfort in the memories you'll cherish, and in the love and strength from family and friends.

Erik Alsgaard

November 16, 2011

Mr. Wetmore was my high school principal at Midland High. It was my job do to the morning announcements before third hour; it was his job to edit/censor my script. He was always patient with me, even in my most "memorable" moments. Because of his encouragement, I pursued a degree/career in communications... a field I'm still in and very passionate about. Thank you, Mr. Wetmore. You done good.

Mary Burns

November 15, 2011

Lois,
We were so sorry to hear of Clayton's passing. Joyce, Bill and I will be there for you and your family.

Rick & Joyce McManus

November 14, 2011

Lois: Clayton was a special person and he will be missed by Rick and me.

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results