Colonel William H. Wellman (United States Army, retired) of 7 Helen Street, Plattsburgh, New York, died Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in South New Berlin, New York, on Dec. 12, 1935, he was the son of Ernest and

Celia Wellman. Bill was a 1957 graduate of St. Lawrence University and held a master's degree from Appalachian State University.

He entered the U.S. Army following his graduation from St.

Lawrence University and served his nation in positions of responsibility around the world. He was a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College and the Army War College.

Bill's career included tours in Southeast Asia, Korea, Europe and the United States. He was privileged and proud to command the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry while at Fort Hood, Texas.

His decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, four

awards of the Air Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal, as well as other United States and foreign decorations including the Vietnamese Cross

of Gallantry with Palm. He was the recipient of the Combat Infantry Badge, the Army General Staff Badge, Parachutist Badge, and the Expert Infantry Badge.

Following his retirement from active duty in 1988, he worked in the defense industry as a consultant, program manager, and facility director in Kentucky and New Jersey. He later retired to Plattsburgh.

In retirement, Bill's passion for conservation issues grew. An avid fly fisherman, he served as member, officer, and director of the Lake Champlain Chapter of Trout Unlimited and the New York State Council of Trout Unlimited, where he served as secretary and regional vice president. He was an active participant in numerous North Country and Lake Champlain water related conservation organizations.

Bill was a man of many achievements however any remembrance of him must include his wife, Kay. Bill as a husband was solid; Kay could depend on him. Kay knew he loved her and he always provided strength and comfort. He was fun and kept her entertained for 64 years, which wasn't always easy, but he managed like he did everything.

Kay was the love of his life, and he adored her. Their devotion to each other was unmatched and unwavering.

Bill deeply loved his country, family and friends. He was an optimist and an extrovert. He laughed easily and had a keen sense of humor. He was generous and believed in people.

Nothing made him happier than to see other people succeed and work alongside them. Bill delighted in watching his children and grandchildren succeed. He was always ready to give advice and encouragement. He was confident, but never arrogant, and respected hard work of any kind.

He leaves us with a life well lived, a legacy of love and joy, and we miss him every single day. The world will not see his like again.

Survivors include his beloved wife Katherine, of Plattsburgh, whom he married Jan. 2, 1960, children Master Gunnery Sergeant William L. Wellman (USMC, retired) of Albuquerque, New

Mexico; Susan Blackburn of Columbia, Missouri, Jane Wellman of Columbia, Missouri, and Thomas Wellman of Kirkwood, Missouri; daughters-in-law Natalie Wellman and Robin Wellman,

son-in-law Randy Blackburn, sisters-in-laws Susan Cameron and Lucille Logan, and grandchildren William, Alexandra, Clay, Cole, Andrew, Ryan, and Max. Numerous great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces also survive. A sister, Mary, and a brother, James,

predeceased him.

Funeral services were held on Friday, August 16, 2024.