Althea Wellman

1928 - 2025

Althea A. Wellman, 96, of rural Lima, passed away 11:20 p.m., Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, at Elmwood Assisted Living of New Bremen, with her daughter at her side. She was born Oct. 6, 1928, in St. Marys, OH, the daughter of the late Tom and Edna (Hines) Howell. On Oct. 20, 1949, she married Howard W. Wellman, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 23, 2018.
Survivors include, daughter, Winona (Gary) Axe, Auburndale, FL; three grandchildren, Dr. Joshua (Dr. Chelsea) Axe, Rachel (Dr. Ronson) Dykstra, Dr. Jordan Axe; five great grandchildren, Charlotte, Oliver, and Grayson Dykstra, and 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, Aug. 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, Aug. 23, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to Samaritan's Purse. Condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.