About This Memory Space
This page was created for Donald A. Wellmann's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Donald A. Wellmann's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Donald A. Wellmann. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Donald A. Wellmann crafted a life of steadfast commitment, from his roots in Cincinnati to decades of service and community ties in Indiana, where his wisdom and warmth left an indelible mark on all who crossed his path.
Raised amid the familiar streets of Cincinnati, Ohio, Don blossomed into a young man of purpose, graduating from Indian Hill High School in 1960 before embarking on a path of national service at the US Naval Academy. His journey wove through diverse assignments, honing expertise in avionics while embodying the values of duty and excellence. Eventually settling in Indiana with his wife Dianne, he cultivated deep-rooted connections over four decades, becoming a pillar in his adopted home—a mentor, confidant, and cherished presence to many beyond blood ties.
Don's over two decades in the US Navy stood out for his distinguished work in avionics, safeguarding the nation's skies through skillful innovation and unwavering dedication. His postings across the globe not only advanced military capabilities but also inspired those around him, earning respect as a reliable leader and technical expert whose influence rippled through generations of service members.
Family & Loved Ones
Cherished moments with Dianne, his partner of 61 years, formed the joyful rhythm of Don's days, alongside raising children Dondi (David) Tate, Amy (Tom) Franks, and Todd (Julie) Wellmann. His role expanded with pride to encompass grandchildren Jordyn (Josh) Bailey, Hillary (Matt) Hollenbaugh, Evans Tate, Trace (Reagan Riddle) Wellmann, Jake (Kassie Cash) Wellmann, Matthew Franks, Benjamin Franks, and Sam Wellmann, plus great-grandchildren Beau, Leo, Emma, Eli, and Kylar—with two more great-granddaughters eagerly anticipated. Even his cousin Vicki (Ted) Peters felt the steady glow of his kindness, while countless others embraced him as an uncle, father figure, or beloved 'Papa,' reflecting his innate talent for nurturing bonds.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Echoes from Don's circle capture a man whose quiet strength and generous spirit wove into the fabric of everyday lives, with shared reflections underscoring his role as a beacon of guidance and unwavering support.