Lt. Col. Michael Allen Wellman, retired, age 53, was found May 10 in his Huntsville home. He had died of natural causes. He is survived by his wife, Keri Wellman, and their four children, William, Katherine, Noah and Elizabeth, of Ansbach Germany; his mother, Sally Tiffany of Green Valley, AZ; step-mother, Andrea Wellman, of Toledo, OH; and sister Cindy Bartley, of Toledo, OH, among many other family members.

Michael's dry sense of humor was literally known throughout the world. As a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, his life was dedicated to serving his country. Beginning his career as a humble airman, he rose through the ranks in his career as an active duty officer for the 210th Alaska Air Search and Rescue Squadron, in Anchorage, Alaska. In his service in Alaska as an HC130 Navigator, he participated in hundreds of rescue missions during his 24 years and was credited with 118 lives saved in the rugged Alaska wilderness; as well as in combat.

After retirement, he spent nearly a decade at the Ansbach Garrison in Germany, serving the US Army as a contractor; and helping soldiers navigate combat zones to return safely home.

As a devoted husband, father and Christian man, Michael's life was truly dedicated to God, family and country. His mission was to serve others.

The motto of the Alaska Air National Guard Search and Rescue became his personal life's motto: "That Others May Live."

Services are planned for August in Toledo, Ohio.

There is no doubt he has finally reached a place of peace; and he has heard the words spoken to him: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Berryhill Funeral Home assisted the family.