Joseph Thomas Wellinski, 80, of La Porte, Indiana passed away Monday, December 6, 2021.

 

Joseph was born July 15, 1941, in Rolling Prairie, Indiana to the late Martin and Gertrude (Turek) Wellinski.

 

On May 24, 1969, Joseph married Bonnie Sue Rodgers in Michigan City, Indiana who preceded him in death on January 25, 2005. They were married 36 years. 

 

Joseph entered the United States Army in 1959, to serve his country.  After his service, he worked for the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 150 as a heavy equipment operator.  He volunteered at the Center Township Fire Department as a fireman and served as president.

 

Joseph is survived by his sons; Joseph M. Wellinski of La Porte, Indiana, Patrick E. (Jenifer) Wellinski of Caseville, Michigan, and Brian K. (Robin) Wellinski of Rolling Prairie, Indiana; several grandchildren; a sister, Mary Jo Mueller of Traverse City, Michigan; a brother, James Wells of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee; and several nieces and nephews. 

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters, Angelina Baud, Margaret Boyce, Phyllis Kratz, Norma Wellnicki, and a brother, David Wellinski.

 

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m.  Friday, December 10, 2021, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

 

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, December 11, 2021, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.

 

The family would like to thank the staff at Miller's Merry Manor in New Carlisle for the special care they provided for Joseph.

 

Memorial contributions may be made to Center Township Volunteer Fire Department, 4504 W. Johnson Road, La Porte, Indiana 46350.

 

Please share prayers, condolences, and memories with the family at EsslingFuneralHome.com.