William D. “Bill” Wellington

April 7, 1931 - September 10, 2020
William D. “Bill” Wellington

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William D. “Bill” Wellington, 89, of Wellsville, OH, passed away at his home on September 10, 2020 with his wife of 65 years by his side. 

Bill was born in Wellsville on April 7, 1931, the son of the late Donald C. and Virginia (Turner) Wellington. He graduated from Wellsville High School with the class of 1949. Bill valued the time he spent with his classmates and loved their reunions. Many years after graduation, his classmates voted him “Most Unchanged” as he still had the quick wit and sense of humor he carried with him since childhood. 

Bill married the love of his life, Lillian J. Frischkorn, on May 28, 1955. From their union, two sons were born. Both inherited their father’s strong will.

He enlisted in the United States Air Force Defense Command, serving from 1950-1954 reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant during his service. He was extremely proud to be a veteran who had served his country. He also worked at the First Energy Toronto plant until his 1992 retirement following 30 years of service. 

Earlier in life Bill was a member of Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church. He then became a member of Riverside Presbyterian Church in Wellsville. His church families were especially important to him. 

Bill enjoyed fishing and making his famous black cow root beer floats for his grandchildren. He also enjoyed eating pancakes, and baking raisin filled cookies for himself and others – but mainly so he could eat them himself. He could often be heard randomly singing and yodeling at home, at work, and in public. He loved spending time with his family… unless they were shopping. He could always do without shopping. 

Along with his wife Lillian, left behind to cherish his memory are his two sons: William “Paul” (Gerri) Wellington of Corry, PA and Jonathan H. (Heather) Wellington of Providence, RI. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Lisa (Ib) Contessa of New Castle, PA, Amber (Matthew Till) Wellington of Cambridge Springs, PA, Elijah Wellington of Providence, and great-grandchildren Knox and Thane. He is further survived many nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers: Donald M. “Bud” (Maxine) Wellington of Flowery Branch, GA and Robert E. “Bob” (Peg) Wellington of Wellsville. 

A standing graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at Oak Ridge Presbyterian Cemetery, 42072 Oak Ridge Road, Wellsville, OH. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you celebrate the spirit of generosity Bill held in life. Donations may be made to Riverside Presbyterian Church, 525 Riverside Ave., Wellsville, OH 43968 or to the charity of your choice. 

In compliance with Ohio State Regulations and in connection to the COVID-19 public health crisis, proper social distancing and masking will be practiced. After the health crisis, the family hopes to host a memorial service at a later date. 


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  • September 12, 2020
    Lillian Wellington says:
    Blessings to all who have befriended Bill in thought, word or deed. Rather than sending cards or items to our home, please consider sharing a story or memory here with the comments. Our family will treasure them. (Besides, my younger brother claims every stamp adds a nickle to his pension fund!) ...smile, smile!

  • September 13, 2020
    Cheryl J Skinner Tri-State Military Museum says:
    May the love of God surround you and your family during this difficult time, May you come to know that the love of God is with you always, May your memories of William D. Wellington, give you peace, comfort and strength… Rest now in the arms of our Lord your mission on earth is complete. I thank you for your service to our Country and my Freedom. You will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers to the family of …. US Air Force Veteran, William D. Wellington, is “A True American Hero” God Bless† † Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 †

  • September 13, 2020
    Jeff and Patty Wellington says:
    I'll always remember the Christmas get togethers at Grandma's and Pap's on Christmas Eve. Uncle Bill's laugh was so infectious. Patty and I are so sorry for your loss and will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers. Love and miss you all.

  • September 13, 2020
    Michael and Linda Wellington says:
    It's understandable why his classmates voted Uncle Bill "Most Unchanged" - he was always the same cheerful, life-loving guy, from my earliest childhood memories to the infrequent times I got to see him over the years. He never missed an opportunity to give any of us kids a hard time (all in fun, of course). We know he's in a better place, but we also know how much he will be missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him. Aunt Lil, Paul and Jon, you are in our hearts and in our prayers. Take solace in knowing Grandma & Pap, Uncle Bob & Aunt Peg, and Dad & Mom were all waiting to greet him when he arrived.

  • September 14, 2020
    Justin Swartzmiller says:
    It is with a heavy heart that I learned of Bill's passing. I spent many afternoons and overnights during my childhood at the Wellington's as Jon and I were best friends. Whether Jon and I were sled riding, playing basketball, football, fishing, or just hiking; Bill would always come over and interject a special spark of humor that made you smile. It just occurred to me, as I'm approaching 30 years in the Air Force and having visited 29 countries that Bil was the first one to take me out of the country...He took Jon and I on an amazing fishing trip to Canada. Thank you for being like a second father to me Bill. Somehow I feel you have 'em laughing in Heaven already!!!