Obituary of Michael Oliver Wellander

Michael Oliver Wellander, 65, passed away unexpectedly on April 24, 2014, at his home in Olympia, Washington. Mike was born July 9, 1948, in Tacoma, Washington, the first child of the late Michael and Lucille Wellander. He grew up in Seattle and, as the oldest in a group of neighborhood boys, Mike was a leader. At age seven, he led several younger children on a “treasure hunt” several blocks from home, reading a Fisheries blueprint as his “treasure map.” At age 12, the oldest of seven children, Mike often served as “assistant parent,” with such duties as packing the car for family vacations. Mike was always mechanically minded. In Olympia, after reading the electrical building code requirements, he rewired the family kitchen as part of a remodel. Mike graduated from William Winlock Miller High School in 1967. Mike earned a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Washington in 1971. He earned a second degree in Civil Engineering from the U of W in 1973. In 1975, Mike began working for the Department of Natural Resources as an Engineering Aide in Forks, Washington. Around 1980, he transferred to Olympia and was promoted to Stereoplotter Operator, and then Photogrammetrist a few years later. He worked with aerial photography and other remote sensing data to extract information used for managing our natural resources. Mike’s supervisor and colleague of 36 years described him as a “… great person, a dedicated and model employee, and absolutely brilliant when it came to technology and science.” Mike was a gentle soul. He was interested in all things mechanical and technological. Mike loved to read, and loved to discuss politics and economics. He was also a very private person. Mike is survived by his siblings, Ted Wellander of Burlington, Danielle (Malcolm) Wellander of San Diego, California, Jeff Wellander of Olympia, Pat (Julie) and Sean (Jennifer) Wellander of Kirkland, Chris (Dee) Wellander of Seattle, and Tiffany Ordos of Bellingham. He is also survived by four nieces and six nephews. Memorial donations may be made to The Salvation Army. Please leave memories of Mike or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.