R. "Mike" Welter

R. “Mike” Welter, 79, of Cantrall, IL passed away on Monday April 22, 2024 at home in the company of his wife.

Mike was born in Midway, Utah on February 24, 1945 and was the son of Robert and Thora Welter. He married Carol L. Wegner on April 22, 1967 in Fort Benning, Ga. Shortly before his marriage, Mike Joined the United States Army. He served for 20 years retiring as a Lt. Colonel from the military. During his time in the Army, Mike received various decorations including a Purple Heart, and a Bronze Star. Mike was a "Green Beret" United States Army Special Forces. He flew Helicopters during his service in Vietnam and continued to fly as a Test Pilot in both fixed wing and rotary aircraft. In the Mid 1970's Mike was assigned to the T.A.F.T unit in IRAN before the revolution. He finally spent time as an Army advisor to the Illinois National Guard. 

After his time in the Army, Mike joined the Illinois State Police.  He was instrumental in helping pass the SORS Bill. Mike also played a part in getting Motorcycle Patrolmen on the Illinois highways. Mike was a patriot and loved his country.

He was a Cub Scout Master and a Boy Scout Master in Pack 52 in Athens, IL. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being in nature. He especially loved spending time in the mountains. Mike was a good man, a leader and a dedicated worker and family man. He loved his family dearly and especially loved his grandchildren.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 sister, Janet

Mike is survived by his wife, Carol Welter; children, Jewel Welter, Michael Benjamin Welter (wife, Becky), and Jason Daniel Welter (wife, Alice); grandchildren, Kai and Riven; sisters Jill Kuhlman and Dixie Welter as well as a very large extended family.

Cremation services are being accorded.

There will be a gathering of close friends and family at Ellinger-Kunz and Park Funeral Home, 530 5th St. Springfield, IL on Friday May 3, 2024 at 10:30am. We will then proceed to Camp Butler for a memorial service at 12:00 pm. Military Honors will be observed. "Casual Dress" is requested if any friends and family are coming to Mike's services.  

A Celebration of Life is being held following the graveside services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3601 Buckeye Dr, Springfield, IL 62712.  

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Gary Sinese Foundation (https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate)

"Live life to the fullest" - Mike