SMSgt Vernon K. Wellman, USAF, Retired, 83, died peacefully in his sleep, on Wed, Oct. 14, 2015. Born in Riplinger, WI, he was the son of the late Walter and Edna (Scheuerman) Wellman.

Vern attended school in Spencer, WI until joining the Air Force in 1950. While stationed at Andrews AFB in Maryland, he met his wife of 61 years, Eva (Esten) Wellman. SMSgt Wellman served his country, traveling the world, for 22 Y2 years, retiring in 1973. He then joined American Airlines, computer center in Tulsa, OK, retiring from American in 1990.

Vern and Eva moved to The Villages, FL from Tulsa, OK in 1998. Above all, Vern loved and lived for his family. He was an avid gardener, and shared his knowledge and bountiful crops with his children and grandchildren, and many lucky friends. Vern's passion was his love of golf. He was on the links for over 60 years and was still playing 3 times a week.

He was a charter member of New Covenant United Methodist Church, a member of the German·American and Retired Military Clubs, and a devoted follower of the Oklahoma Sooners and the Dallas Cowboys football teams.

He leaves his wife, Eva, daughters, Lori Greenwood, Kristie Grossman (Roy), both of Tulsa, OK; son, Scott of Norman OK: 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; a Sister, lone Sook of Fond-du-Lac, WI and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Linda Tynan; a son, Steven; great grandson, Josiah Johnson; and brother, Robert. Vern will be remembered by his family as selfless, dependable, and honest; the giver of nicknames; and our much loved Dad, Bompa, Crappa, Gramps, Grandpa.

Graveside service will be at 1:00 PM., Thursday, October 22, 2015 at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, OK. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the New Covenant United Methodist Church, The Villages, FL. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233