George Milton Welder

George Milton Welder, 75, of Bangor, passed away Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at the Rose Arbor Nursing Home in Kalamazoo. He was born September 14, 1940 to Milton and Dorothy (Anderson) Welder in South Haven.

He is survived by his beloved wife and childhood sweetheart – Patricia Ann, cousins – Sue (Wayne) Hammond, Hilary (Ron) Stanislawsky, Ted (Lynn) Welder, and Bobby (Carol) Anderson.

George belonged to many organizations including the Corvette Coventry, Gulf Coast Rock and Gem Club, Flywheelers, 55-57 Chevy Club, Kalamazoo Rock and Gem Club, the Bangor Historical Society, The Loyal Order of the Moose, The Van Buren Historical Museum, and the Corvette Clubs of America.

George became a carpenter and built six houses. He was also a proficient plumber and electrician. George raced and won at Martin Speedway in his youth. He operated a Rupp Snowmobile Sales and a body restoration shop. George loved ’55 to ’58 Chevrolets. George was also a skilled farmer and developed three blueberry farms.

In retirement, George and Patt enjoyed seven years of traveling in an RV through most of the United States, Canada, and Alaska. His greatest achievement was his loving 45 year marriage to his beloved wife Patt.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, October 26, 2015 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 27, 2015 at the St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven with Rev. Father Robert Flickinger officiating. Contributions may be made in George’s memory to The Rose Arbor Hospice, 5473 Croyden Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009. George will be laid to rest in Breedsville Cemetery.