George T. Wealton, 80, of Marquette, died Friday, December 25, 2020 at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans where he had made his residence for six years. But the memories of him and his spirit lives on for those of us who were fortunate enough to know him.
George was born on January 28, 1940 in Marquette, a son of the late George J. and Jeanette (Couvion) Wealton and was a lifelong area resident. He attended the Howard Elementary School and was a 1958 graduate of Bishop Baraga High School.
Following graduation, George enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in Japan. Climbing Mt. Fuji was one of the highlights he enjoyed while stationed there. After being discharged from the Navy, George found employment with the former Cliff Dow Chemical plant and later was employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a clerk until his retirement in 1995.
He is survived by four sons, Robert J. Wealton of Marquette, Daniel J. (Joanne) Wealton of North Carolina, William (Lisa) Bagnell of North Carolina and Robert (Robyn) Bagnell of California; several grandchildren and cousins; one brother, James (his favorite sister-in-law, Jeanette) Wealton of Marquette; five nephews, Jacob, Joel, Ronald, Scott, and Douglas Wealton. Preceding him in death besides his parents was his wife, Mary Ann Bagnell-Wealton on September 1, 2019; a brother Robert Wealton in 1948 from polio; also a grandson, Tony Bagnell.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, June 26 at 10 a.m. in the Negaunee Cemetery with members of American Legion Post #44 rendering military honors. A reception will immediately follow the service at the American Legion in Marquette.
The family would like to thank the staff at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans for their tender loving care of George while he was a resident there.
Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy are kindly asked to consider the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans Activity Fund, 425 Fisher Street, Marquette, MI 49855 in George's memory.
George's wish was to be with his best friend and the love of his life, Mary Ann, which is now complete.
Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Wealton family where memories of George may be shared at canalefuneral.com.
Tributes
Griffin Avin wrote on Jan 5, 2021:
"My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Wealton?s family. I only new George through his son Bill but I know Bill cared for him deeply. I pray God will comfort everyone in this time of mourning but find comfort in knowing that death is not an end but only a transition and one day you will all be reunited again. He is not physically present with you now but will always be with you in your hearts. "
Helen Connolly Bailey wrote on Dec 31, 2020:
"My deepest condolences to George?s family. He was a classmate of mine, as was Mary Ann. He always had a smile on his face for everyone. He will always be remembered by those of us whose lives he touched. RIP George and I?m happy for you that you are again with Mary Ann to enjoy eternal life together."
Daniel Wealton wrote on Dec 31, 2020:
"George was and is my dad he always will be even now that he has left us. My dad was a great person not only as a father but as a friend. My dad could make friends with anyone anywhere. He loved sports, pitching softball, bowling, and college football. He watched boxing and really got into it weaving and bobbing right with the boxers. When he married my stepmother Mary Ann he gave me two new brothers from another mother. Bill and Bob Bagnell.
My dad always seemed to be happy.
The last few years have been hard on him with the loss of his wife Mary Ann, and his health detireraring he was ready to go to his next life beond here with no more pain or suffering.
So on Christmas morning God answered his prayers with the best Christmas gift of all and took him home.
I love you dad and will miss you so bad, but I know we will be together again some day.
You loving son
Dan."
David Kallio wrote on Dec 30, 2020:
"I knew George through his brother, Jim. I remembered him as a Navy veteran and an active bowler. To me, he was the face of the Post Office in Marquette over the years. I had to do business there weekly and I could always count on a smile, some light conversation and a casual efficiency that made the transaction light and friendly. He was a very nice guy and I?m sure that many will miss him. Sail on, George, we?ll join you on that ship some day. Dave Kallio"
Laurie Robinson wrote on Dec 30, 2020:
"George was someone who always made smile. It was an honor and a pleasure taking care of him at Jacobetti.
I'm sorry for your loss. He earned his wings.
Laurie "
Jerry & Linda Hawes wrote on Dec 28, 2020:
"Jim - Linda and I send our sympathy to you and all the family of your brother George. I remember George from the customer window at the post office. Veterans honors are well deserved. Jerry & Linda Hawes"