Sept.
24, 2009MISHAWAKA - Leonard Ellsworth Wells, 98, of Tavares, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2009. He was born in Mishawaka, IN. He graduated from Mishawaka High School, class of 1928 and operated a contracting business for over 40 years. He and his wife, Vera Mamula Wells, were married for 59 years until her death in 1997. Leonard retired 1975 and moved to a lake home near Marcellus, MI, spending winters in Okeechobbe, FL. In 1994 Leonard and Vera moved permanently to Okeechobee. Leonard is survived by two daughters, Elaine Wells Brallier of Mishawaka, IN and Gail Wells Heneghan of Tavares; four grandsons, ten great-grandchildren and one great great-granddaughter. Leonard was a life-long member of First Christian Church in Mishawka where he and Vera celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. In Okeechobee, Leonard and Vera were members of the First United Methodist Church. Leonard was able to live independently in his own home until early this year. In all of his married life, he lived in homes built with his own hands, an accomplishment he was very proud of, and which personified his philosophy of personal responsibility. Burial will be in Okeechobee, FL for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to ones local hospice organization. Arrangements have been entrusted to Steverson Hamlin & Hilbish Funeral Home, 226 East Burleigh Boulevard, Tavares, FL 32778. Online condolences may be left at www.steversonhamlinhilbish.com.