Hi Michelle!  Just over 1 year since you left us and you still have an impact on those you left behind.  So thankful to have known you and what a special bond you had with family, friends, and co-workers…and especially your sweet Mom.  I hope your family can take solace in knowing how much you left an impact on so many people.  Your infectious smile and all of love for Disney will never be forgotten!  RIP sweet girl! 👶🙏

Thinking of Tracey, Mike, & Kristen today. Sending our thoughts & prayers always. 🙏🏻♥️

Somedays just hit different. And tonight hit different without you little one. 

This time of year we would be planning the next time I would see you, since I was out of state and we would be counting down the days to be able to see our little family and talk about our past yea r in  person etc. 

I would love to tell you what happened in the last past year. I think you would love to hear the update and I think you would have been proud of me. You always wanted the best for me, and at the time I thought I was experiencing the best but you always knew better and you always pushed me for more. 

Now granted you also always supported me, but I think right now you would actually be really happy for me,  

I guess im partially using this as a way to tell you what I wish I got to tell you in person; but im happy, like actually happy; and I wish you were here to come to Seattle and experience it with me. We would go get fun drinks and sit and people watch and make up stories about people’s lives like we used too; at this point I finally learned how you to cook lol and I think you wouldn’t be scared to eat it 😂. There is so many things I wish I could tell you and experience with you but even though you aren’t physically  with me, know you are “ with me, like a handprint on my heart” 

I miss you Michelle. But your spirit and memory lives on, I promise 💜

Hi little. I woke up today; your birthday came up on my calendar and I just cried. 

Selfishly my life has changed so much since you have left us and I wish I had you to talk to. You always knew how to give me confidence and kept it real with how you were feeling even if you knew I didn’t want to hear it at the time. 

I miss your voice, I miss the way you said “byeeee” I miss you mirror selfies, your #OOTD posts and being able to reply damn girl you looking snatched; YAS queen 😂. 

But missing you just makes me realize how lucky I am to be able to have so many little things I miss and love about you! Thanks for always making our bows for our sorority events, they were always the best 💜💜 

Love you my little one and know that you are in my heart and thoughts everyday. 


I will always remember you, Kristen, Nick and your Dad playing pretty pretty princes on Thanksgiving and how much you loved seeing Nick.  I will miss you dearly while your on to your next adventure in heaven.  I got to see how many lives you touched this last Saturday.  That’s the most important thing in life here on earth.  You made the most of it while you were hear with us and I know you will continue that.  We love you!

Michelle lived in a world full of magic. Magic hidden in the ordinary everyday things that wouldn’t get a second glance from most people.

History class was right after lunch, and Michelle would always grab a bag of M&M’s for a secret under-the-desk snack. Something I learned from Michelle is that M&M’s have names, and every brown M&M has the same name: Mr. Poop. She insisted Mr. Poop was not to her palate, and I graciously offered to relieve her of these distasteful treats, which she dutifully sorted each afternoon, and offloaded with a hearty thanks. But here's another secret about M&M’s: Every color tastes the same. Looking back, I realize now that I did her no favors in Mr. Wood’s world history class. Our shared lore around the stories and personalities of the many M&M colors was nothing more than an excuse for her to share her sweets, wrapped up a world of stories, with a friend.

The hundredth history lecture; hour three in the roller coaster line; the dozenth doodle in a notebook corner, all were gifts. I have no other word to describe it; it’s the Michelle magic. The gift to imbue the world with color and promise and joy and stories. A gift lost to us. A gift of which my generous share, for which I am endlessly grateful, I will carry with me always in the hopes of keeping her magic alive.

Mike, Tracey and Kristen💜
I have been and continue to be at such a loss for words. First, my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences.  My love and prayers surround you all during this most difficult lifelong journey of loss. Belle brought so much joy to my softball days! Her passion for life was evident each and every day. She lived and loved more in her time on earth than most could ever imagine. I love you daughter Tracey and Mike    and your sister, Kristen. I hope your memories sustain you during this most difficult time! 

Wellman family, just let me know if I’m posting too much. 

But fun fact. I love chop sticks. The obsession started when Michelle and I lived together and she always made fun of how long it took me to eat when I was learning lol, but I think I use chop sticks at least 5 days a week. But we are in college and had like 22 cents so I always had to use the crappy wood ones from the local take out place. 

But when Michelle was in Disney years later ( 5 years exactly) she went out of her way to go pick out some chopsticks for me and sent them to me because I told her the other ones I normally
Used broke. I also had just moved to a different state and that little package and hand written note meant the world to me. 

If that doesn’t perfectly sum up how much of a sweet heart she was I don’t know what will. 

She took the time to get to know you as a person and she didn’t forget the little things. But what makes her extra special if she would take the time to do something to make someone smile without expecting anything in return. You were truly something special. 

Eating with chop sticks  thinking of you tonight   💜💜

Tracey,
I really enjoyed the time I worked with Michelle and was so sad to hear of her passing.  Heather and I will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you Michelle for making my time at FGIT school so much better! Your heart was bigger than your smile! 💖

I’ve thought a lot about how to capture all of the joy and charisma Michelle brought to this world. Her exuberance was impossible to put in words. But I’ve found peace in reading all of the tributes and memories that reinforce how incredibly special Michelle was to so many people, myself included. I roomed with Michelle while working at Disney World and at the time I was nervous to live with complete strangers. But from day one Michelle’s excitement and goofiness were contagious. The months that followed were the best kind of chaos filled with laughs, love, and a whole lot of pixie dust (but seriously Michelle would always come home from work covered in glitter). I’ll forever cherish our time together in the parks and all the memories from apartment 136. Even though that was years ago, every time we spoke it was like no time had passed at all. I knew Michelle was always there for me no matter what. I’m heartbroken and extend my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Michelle. She was a spark of joy that brought so much light and happiness into my life and her memory will continue to do so each and every day. 

Dear Wellman Family,
It just seems unreal that Michelle is gone and my heart breaks for your loss. Michelle was a very special person and I think fondly of growing up as her neighborhood friend - chatting about school while walking from the bus, doing homework while watching the Tyra Banks show, and going trick or treating. This week I have been thinking about all the time Michelle and I spent as teammates - softball and basketball. Michelle was a natural athlete whatever the sport - coordinated, focused, and confident. I always looked up to her and she was always a team leader, the unspoken but recognized team captain. Michelle was a generous and patient teammate who would cheer everyone on, and never made me feel bad for my blunders on the basketball court or softball field. I remember really struggling with throwing for softball, and asking my dad how I could have as good an arm as Michelle: “Spend hours in your backyard every day practicing like Michelle and you might get close”. Michelle really would spend hours pitching in her yard, and the results were clear: a devastatingly fast pitch that was the foundation of any of our teams wins. I recognized Michelle’s dedication and drive then, and she inspired me to put in the same amount of effort whatever sport I played. Michelle made every team she was on better, she made all of us better. I will miss her and all that I hoped she would go on to do. Thank you, Wellman Family for raising a wonderful daughter and sharing her with us. 
My condolences,
Emily 

It's been a week and I still can't comprehend that she is gone. But we will keep the memories and good times flowing so we can celebrate her as much as possible. 

This isn't a specific event, it was just the little things we did  like when we went grocery shoppingwhen we lived together her senior year.  Let's be real we didn't have a lot of money, so we would just be looking at the cheapest/ easiest things to make because we both could not cook! I think Michelle ate this like "pasta-roni" alfredo thing that was a dollar like very night lol. I wasn't much better, I bascially lived off to lean cusine meals and peanut butter lol, but we ended most nights just talking about our days, me living vicariously through her and her senior year as i woke up at 6 AM to work at a bank in customer service.

But when we were feeling special or wanted a little treat, Michelle would make these oreo  balls and they would just change your life. She would make a batch and we would just watch a movie, talk about life <3 

Miss you little one. I'll make some "balls" for you soon lol 

Mike, Tracy and Kristen. I am at a loss to know what to say.  I was heartbroken when I heard of Michelle's passing. 
I will always have the picture in my mind of the cul-de-sac kids running for the ice cream truck and enjoying the treats together.  
My deepest sympathies are with you.

I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter and sister Michelle.  I remember both girls from childcare at Hiawatha.  My memory is what great kids and what a great, caring family the Wellman's were.   May all the wonderful memories of your time together ease the grief you are feeling.  My thoughts are with each of you.  Janet Lee

My thoughts are with you all. Michelle was a sweet little baby when I babysat her. Please know I am thinking of you Mike Tracey and Kristen. Love and Prayers , Kerri Stiver

Mike , I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.                                                         Sue Eckhart

Mike, Tracy and Kristen, Words alone cannot adequately express our sorrow to learn of Michelle's passing.  We hope your fond memories will help get you through this difficult time.  You are in our thoughts and prayers.  Gary and Miriam 

So sorry for your loss.  My thoughts and prayers are with you all.   May you find peace and comfort.

Mike and Tracey:

We are so sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. Terry and I cannot even fathom what you and your family are going through. We are sending all our love and healing thoughts your way. If either of you need to talk, or need a hug personally delivered, we’re available anytime. 

Jill and Terry Perkins 

My heart is heavy writing this – I first want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and closest loved ones. I met Michelle through Greek Life at Western Michigan University, us sharing a mutual group of friends. After college, we both had the chance to catch up again while both doing the Disney College Program.  One of my fondest memories during those Disney days was us just having a blast at the Magic Kingdom, seizing the day and living in the moment – happy and carefree. If I could get that day back, I’d relive it in a heartbeat. Michelle, I will miss you. From your kind, giving soul to your funny, silly self – both of which I admired immensely. I lost a dear friend, but a fairy has gotten her wings. You were magic, and one in a million. Rest peacefully. 

Michelle was always such a genuine and kind hearted person. At first when joining Sigma Kappa I thought she was a more keep to yourself type person, the day we moved into the chapter house all her personality and wittiness came out. I loved every second of it. I was lucky to serve on executive board with Michelle and got to know her a bit more. She was someone who always would lend an ear and listen to your problems, and even be a shoulder to cry on (few recruitment tears were shed together)… She also may or may not have bought my alcohol in college because she was older than me (by almost 1 month!) I’m praying for the family during this time and we’re so fortunate to have these memories carry on of Michelle forever. As the Greek saying goes, may her memory be eternal. Thank you for being such a great sister ❤️

How does one pick a single picture or memory that can describe everything Michelle was to everyone who loved her. She was my personal hair and make up artist, weekend movie pal, frozen yogurt date and the greatest big sis anyone could ask for. My favorite memories are the ones where she’s happiest like getting her Beauty and the Beast paddle I made her, getting into the Disney College Program and enjoying nights in together. 

Well Michelle, I didn’t think I could miss you more than when you left for a semester to go to the Disney College Program but here we are. I’m watching Big Hero 6 in your honor tonight and I wish I could snuggle your stuffed Baymax. I imagine you’re wearing your favorite Mickey ears, eating a dole whip in front of that big purple wall on your way to the It’s a Small World ride in Disney. 

Wellman Family - you did amazing raising and supporting this genuine lady and I’m so sorry she’s gone so soon. She loved you guys tremendously. 

Life is way too fragile.   Lana and I will be praying for your family and praying that you can continue to focus on all of the great times you shared with Michelle.  

I was going to wait to post another one, but here I am. 

So next step in our relationship was big little. I knew she wanted to be mine ( honored!) and so when I got the heads up she was going to be mine I just knew I had to mess with her. 

Good news is, for the week I was messing with her I totally had her fooled ( to the point she told me later she told her mom she didn’t me and was sad) but little did she know… 

So when we finally made it to big little reveal I jumped out of a box and the first thing she yelled at me was “ you bit** I knew it! ” LOL. 

Right at that moment I knew we had something special because we embraced in a huge hug and it was the beginning of an amazing friendship. 

After big little night, we started our empire of the #teamoustanding and we were the best and closest family in all of Greek life for the next 3 years. 💜💜💜

When we were freshmen in college, Michelle asked me to be her date for Sigma Kappa's formal, and then I invited her to my next formal. It came to be that Michelle and I were each other's formal/semiformal/whatever dates for the rest of our org functions in college - each event has a lovely or silly memory that I'm honored to have shared with her. She always had this vibrant, goofy, and caring energy when she was around, and always looked out for her college family. Whether it was the simple days of hanging out in the dorms or the being in the thick of it all on Fraternity Village Drive, we were there getting a good laugh about whatever was going on. 

The Purple Wall will always be a soft reminder of you for me (she loved the heck out of it). Rest well, Twin. 

I am so glad I met Michelle when I moved to Hiawatha Elementary School in fourth grade. Michelle kept me laughing and smiling through basketball practices, girl scouts, binge-watching Degrassi, school dances, and much more. I'm so grateful that she played such a large part in my childhood. Baruch dayan emet, may her memory be a blessing. 

The thing I remember from Michelle the most was that she was kind. She was one of the last members of our little "Greek family" before I graduated, and I know she would be in good hands with our family. In the years after college, I would love to read her social media about all things Disney and would interact on so many other topics with her. 

My condolences' to her family and closed loved ones. I will be thinking of her fondly and the wonderful memories and interactions that I had with Michelle. She will continue to be remembered with love by many.

Michelle- I have so many memories so this may be a few posts but I wanted to start at the beginning. Michelle and I met during recruitment in college and we “ matched” on the first day and ended up talking every day during the rush process. On day three, we had to make cuts so I needed to get deep with this girl. So I took her to the couch and asked her if she could she herself snuggling on the couch with me and the other girls. She started laughing so hard like who is this girl and why is she asking me if she thinks I can envision snuggling these girls on the coach after only talking to them for like 30 minutes. But she said” oh yeah, I can totally see us snuggling on the couch” And that is what we did for the next three years. Michelle and I were always a little awkward lol but that’s what made our bond so strong, Whether is was singing musicals in the car, sharing clothes, her always doing my hair because her hair and makeup skills were >>> every moment was like being with family because that is what she was and is to me. 

Michelle had an incredibly kind soul. She was a great friend to me in college and was there when I needed her. We both loved disney- but her love for Disney World was unmatched. I’m glad to have known such a good person in my life

Mike & Tracey- words cannot express how sorry I was to hear this news.  I can’t even imagine how it would feel to lose a child.  I have a wonderful image of Mike on the basketball court working with his daughters.  Tracey- what can I say, so many memories.  Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.  LOVE❤️      Todd Sambaer

Michelle was so kind & fun to be around  - she joined our summer softball team at FNBA and I think its safe to say she carried us through.  I am so sorry for your loss. 

Our deepest sympathies go out to the Wellman family for the loss of their lovely daughter and sister. May you be comforted by friends and family in the times ahead.
          Vince,Jackie Spagnuolo and family 

Michelle was one of my first friends after moving to a new school in the middle of first grade. In our childhood, she inspired me to be a better athlete. I loved playing sports with her in grade school  and helping others while in Girl Scouts. Though it’s been years since we’ve talked, I still tell people about making dances to all of the Cheetah Girls songs with Allie Rose, Leah Bloomquist, and Michelle! 

Oh Mike and Tracey.  I am so very upset to hear about your beautiful Michelle.  She brought her joy of life through her lovely smile to all she met.  This world will miss her.  Her love of Cheeze- it’s (a Hedge/Wellman addiction) and Sigma Kappa made me extra fond of her.  So happy that me and my grandkids got pixie dusted by her in Disney World. Disney Princess Michelle will have a place in my heart forever.

I was devastated to hear of Michelle's passing.  We worked closely together in Mortgage Services at FNBA.  She was such a sweetheart and somehow always seemed to make the days brighter. I enjoyed listening to her stories about Disney and loved her creativity and thoughtfulness.  She will always be missed & remembered.  Prayers for her entire family for comfort & peace during this difficult time. 

Dear Tracey, Mike and Kristen,

So profoundly sorry for this sudden, grievous loss.  Though I did not have the opportunity to know Michelle well, I knew she was a true Wellman: she did everything with excellence and with a smile.  

Praying very much for all of you. 

Ann Manion

Tracey, Mike & Kristen, 
We are so sorry to hear about Michelle’s passing. We have so many fond memories of her and the girls out on those softball fields over the past several years. Her enthusiasm and determination as an athlete inspired us all. We will never forget her big smile and fun loving personality. May she Rest In Peace. You are in our prayers. 

I will remember Michelle as a friendly, warm smiling face at FNBA.  May God’s infinite love and healing be with Tracey and the whole family in this time of struggle.

Michelle and I met during our college program. We were the best of DAARLINGs together. Her smile and sense of happiness could light up a room. She was an absolute blessing to have around and I can’t imagine the world without her. I have too many memories that we shared at Walt Disney world that I will cherish forever. 
Michelle will never be forgotten. 
“If you hear me I would say our fingerprints never fade from the lives we’ve touched.” Michelle certainly touched mine and many others.  Thank you for being you. Rest, my sweet friend. 

Michelle and I have been teammates since I first started at FNBA, and a few months back she was promoted to be my supervisor. In the time we worked together we spent a lot of time talking about her friends and family, her time at Disney, and her love of K-Pop and reality TV. She had such a sweet, bubbly, enthusiastic personality. I know she loved and was loved by so many people. Michelle brought a little bit of magic to all of us at work. Her smile and her contagious laugh will certainly be missed, but she will always be remembered for the positive impact she made on us as our supervisor and teammate. She and her family will be in my prayers. 

Michelle and I met during our Disney College Programs and I immediately gravitated towards her because she was from Michigan and so was I. Throughout my time in Florida, we spent so many days in the parks, dinners with our fairy family, and so many late nights texting about the most recent episode of Drag Race. Michelle and a group of fairies got together and went to Disneyland and it was one of the most memorable and laugh filled trips I have ever been on.  I am so grateful for the memories and all of the photos we have in and out of the castle. Miss you always Michelle 💗

I worked with Michelle while we were on the Mortgage Services team.  She always had a smile and I loved her stories about her Disney trips and about when she worked there. 

My heart goes out to her whole family and her friends  as they work through this incredible loss. 

Michelle sat on the other side of the wall from me when she was in Mortgage Services.  Her smile was so bright but her laugh was infectious.  She was always kind and I am so glad I got the pleasure if knowing her.  My sincerest condolences to your family!!



I am so sorry for the Wellman's family loss. My deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved Michelle. She will be sorely missed.

I would need to add 100 photos to capture the light that Michelle brought into any room! We became fast friends during our internship at Disney! We spent our days off in the various parks at Disney World, I would look forward to what she planned for us. Our friendship surpassed the length of the internship, and I am grateful every day to have called her one of my dearest friends. Michelle was kind, spirited, and genuine! Every time we got together it was like time had never passed, despite us living thousands of miles apart! I will miss our silly conversations, trips to Disney, and our endless laughter together. The value of Michelle’s friendship just cannot be expressed through simple words, and I am so incredibly thankful for her impact! 

Tracey, Mike and Kristen, I was so sad to learn of Michelle’s passing. I remember Michelle as such a kind and sweet young woman. She was fun and smart, a joy to be around.  You’re right she had a bright dazzling smile.  I am praying for each of you and your extended family. 

Everyday moments are filled with lessons Michelle taught me. I will remember her daily. 

In just few weeks that I had the chance to get to know Michelle, She had a big positive impact in my life. I recently started my new position and as my supervisor She truly dedicated her time to teach me and made me feel welcome. She truly will be missed. I am praying for her beautiful soul and for her family to find comfort in this difficult time. 

I had the privilege of getting to know this exceptional  young lady over the past 10+ years while working with her wonderful Mom.  I watched her mature and bloom through the years.   From high school student/athlete, to college graduate, then onto the time she spent working at Disney (her happy place), and then finally coming back to MI and starting her career at FNBA.  She was hardworking and gave it her all which paid off in the form of a recent promotion.  Michelle was a ray of sunshine and accomplished so much in her young life.   Michelle was well loved by family, friends and co-workers. I will never make Rollo pretzel treats again without thinking of Michelle…they were one of her favorites.  Gone too soon but she left a mark on so many and she will not be forgotten.  RIP sweet girl.

OBITUARY

Michelle Lynne Wellman

October 14, 1993 – June 17, 2022

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes

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