James Edward Welling, Sr.

James Edward Welling, Sr., was born in Mishawaka, IN, on March 12, 1949 to the late Paul and Iness Welling. He passed away at his home in South Bend, IN, on July 1, 2018.

Dad grew up in South Bend and was a lifelong resident. On June 15, 1974, he married the former Martha Ketchum, who preceded him in death in 2016.

Dad is survived by three children, Anne (Robert) Stephens, James (Rosie) Welling, and Paul (Jessica Clements) Welling, as well as grandchildren, Jonathan Alsip, Martha Alsip, and Noah Stephens, all of South Bend. He is also survived by many cousins.

Dad sold life insurance for several years, but his love and passion was with the Masonic Bodies. He was a member of Terre Coupee Lodge 204, F&AM in New Carlisle and was Past Master. He was a member of South Bend Commandry No. 13, South Bend Council No. 82, and South Bend Chapter No. 29, as well as South Bend Valley of Scottish Rite. Dad was most proud to be a Noble with ORAK Shrine in Michigan City, IN, having served with the Brass Band and Motor Patrol, and other clubs.

Visitation will be Friday, July 6, 2018 from 4:00-8:00pm (EST), with Masonic service at 7:30pm, at Palmer Funeral Home—Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Rd, South Bend, IN. Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, July 7th also at the funeral home, with additional visitation from 10:00-11:00am prior to the service. Graveside services and burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery in South Bend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park Avenue, Chicago, IL 60707-3392.

Online condolences may be left for the Welling family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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