Althea Wellman

LIMA -- Althea A. Wellman, 96, of rural Lima, passed away 11:20 p.m., Friday, August 15, 2025, at Elmwood Assisted Living of New Bremen, with her daughter at her side. She was born October 6, 1928, in St. Marys, OH, the daughter of the late Tom and Edna (Hines) Howell. On October 20, 1949, she married Howard W. Wellman, and he preceded her in death on August 23, 2018.

Survivors include, daughter, Winona (Gary) Axe, Auburndale, FL; 3 grandchildren, Dr. Joshua (Dr. Chelsea) Axe, Rachel (Dr. Ronson) Dykstra, Dr. Jordan Axe; 5 great grandchildren, Charlotte, Oliver, and Grayson Dykstra, Arwyn and Alyn Axe.

Althea had 3 sisters, Winona (Don) Brown (both deceased) and their children, Dennis Brown, Randy Brown, and Vanessa Knostman; Carolyn (Allen) Waterman (both deceased) and their daughters, Cheryl Sheaks and Tina Waterman; Arliss (Jerry) Martin and their children, J.C. Martin, Lazette (Tim) Daum and Maranda Martin. She also had 1 brother, Tommy Howell, who preceded her in death, and his surviving children, Tommy Lee Howell, Eric Howell, Lonnell Howell, and Norman (Brenda) Howell.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Dr. Mark Howard Wellman, on December 26, 2021.

In 1966, Howard and Althea founded Winona Lake. Althea leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and commitment to the generations of guests who have made memories at Winona Lake. Every summer Althea enjoyed running around on her golf cart visiting with the guests and campers at Winona Lake. Her love for children was seen as she gave out candy and ice cream treats. She was extremely generous by feeding, clothing, and offering help to people in need. Althea's gift was cooking, especially delicious pies. She shared that talent by cooking for family and friends. She taught her daughter, grandchildren, and son-in-law how to cook. Alathea paved a path for success by encouraging her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews to pursue education/learning. She had faith everyone could succeed with hard work and determination.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, St. Rt. 501, Wapakoneta, with her grandson, Joshua Axe officiating. Burial is to follow in the Elm Grove Cemetery, St. Marys, OH. The family will receive friends 1-2 p.m., Saturday, August 23, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Samaritan's Purse.

Condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.