Published on September 8, 2026 11:12 am
Last Updated on September 8, 2026 11:12 am
George Wellbaum, 91, passed away on September 4, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, surrounded by his loved ones.
All services will be held at Jewett Community Church in Jewett, IL. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Jewett Cemetery. Barkley Funeral Chapel is assisting the family.
George was born on February 6, 1935, to Oscar and Ruth (Trostle) Wellbaum. He married Shirley Carrico on August 16, 1963.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley, of Greenup; his daughter, Cara Dillier (Lisa Carlen, nurse/daughter), of Greenup; and his son, John Wellbaum (Beth Harmon), of Greenup. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Bren Dillier (Leia), of Misawa, Japan, and Courtney Helmink (Kyle Ruholl) of Effingham; eight great-grandchildren, Loki, Ares, Oona, Bria Dillier, Carsyn, and Ridge Helmink, Aria and Lincoln Ruholl; one brother, Carl (Vicki) Wellbaum, of Jewett; and two sisters, Lenora Quick Swearingen (Bob), of Toledo, Diane Lewis, of Greenup, and sister-in-law, Betty Wellbaum.
George was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Ruth (Trostle) Wellbaum; four brothers, Warren (Martha), Lowell (Nita), Hugh, and John Wellbaum; and one sister, Virginia (Dean) Titus. Brother-in-law Larry Lewis, and sister-in-law Carolyn (Lowell) Kerans.
George attended Buttermilk Grade School and Cumberland High School class of 1952. He worked at Ettelbrick Shoe Factory, Hilltop Lanes (owner), Mitchell’s Plumbing and Heating and retired from Blaw-Knox after 24 years.
George was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and man of faith. He shared 63 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Shirley, and throughout his life, his faith, family, and church family were at the center of all he did. George was a long-time and devoted member of Jewett Community Church. His commitment to the church went far beyond attending services. He helped build the church and faithfully served on the church board for many years. His service reflected the deep faith that guided him throughout his life. George will be especially remembered for his wonderful sense of humor. He loved to tease, play jokes on people, and bring laughter to those around him. He enjoyed playing cards and loved spending time in his garden. George’s faith, humor, love for his family, and years of service to his church will be remembered by all who knew and loved him and mostly his love for the Lord.
Memorial contributions may be made to Jewett Community Church Building Fund.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com