In Loving Memory of George Welland
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of George Welland at the age of 82, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, teacher, and musician. George’s life was a beautiful arrangement of love, laughter, and music, which continues to echo in the hearts of all who knew him.
George was a dedicated family man. He is survived by his wife, Yatta; daughter Tonieh and son Jeremy (Christine); grandchildren Oli, Maxwell, Maya, Tamu and Lula; brothers-in-law Charles “CD” and Varney Konuwa; nephews and nieces of the Mallon family: Jay (Leslie), Kathy (Tim), Linda (Stephen), Patrick (Patty), Paul (Tami), Jean (Tom); and Konuwa family: Munieh (Monah), Wietta, Nina, Alfred Jr., and Anani (Nitasha).
Born in 1942 in Minot, North Dakota to George Waldron Welland Sr. and Mayme Blankinship Welland, George grew up in White Lake, Wisconsin, with older sisters Joyce and Jean, who adored and cared for their little brother. The family later moved to Appleton, Wisconsin, where George graduated from high school, and later moved to Milwaukee to attend University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for both undergrad and masters programs in education.
For nearly 40 years, George dedicated his life as a music educator and guidance counselor in the Milwaukee Public Schools system. He was an instructor at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music for over four years, mentoring many young musicians. George was a veteran, serving in the Army Reserves for 6 years.
Those who knew George realize his life’s passion was music, where George created and truly found joy. A gifted bass player, George started performing music regularly at the Pfister Hotel’s “Crown Room” in the 1960s. He played gigs on nights and weekends to help pay for college. George’s talent gave him an in with Milwaukee & Chicago’s best musicians. He was often hired to play concerts and shows with renowned performers, including Bob Hope, Frankie Avalon and Al Jarreau. After retirement, George loved traveling to international jazz festivals with his son Jeremy.
George’s love for music was only matched by his love for his family. He met his wife, Yatta, and together they built a home in Mequon, Wisconsin, where they raised their children, Tonieh and Jeremy. George was an amazing cook, woodworker, stereophile, early adopter of technology, serious record collector, avid reader, gadget geek, sharp puzzle solver, and corny joke teller. His legacy will live on his children and grandchildren, who were the light of his life and proudest achievement.
Above all, George was a man of warmth, humor, and kindness, right up until his last days. He faced his multiple health challenges with courage, acceptance, and grace. He will be missed deeply by his family, friends, neighbors, fellow musicians, and many others whose lives he impacted. We take comfort in knowing that George’s legacy—his love, his music, and his wisdom—will live on in each of us.
A celebration of George’s life was held in March, 2025 in Milwaukee, WI.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider a charitable donation to The Milwaukee Jazz Institute in George’s honor, so that his legacy of music, jazz, and playing the bass may continue.
George, your melody will never end. Rest in peace and power.
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