Charles Welling

Charles Russell Welling, 73, of Statesville, NC, formerly of Kenna, departed this life Saturday, March 1, 2014 at Mercy Hospital of Charlotte, NC furrounded by his loving family following a brief illness. He was born April 5, 1940 at Ripley, son of the late Russell and Lola Stephens Welling. Charles was known as a shrewd and visionary businessman and a hard worker. He began his career in construction before venturing into his own interests. He developed and operated several successful businesses, including Welling Excavating, Welling Wrecker Service and Lake Norman Fuel Stop. Charles enjoyed working with heavy duty trucks, machinery and equipment and took great pride in his world class rebuilds. Through it all his main goal was to keep his family close. Surviving: His former wife, Wlsie Sayre Welling of Statesville, NC; Daughter Donna Todd (Bobby) of Statesville; Sons, Ricky Welling of Southport, NC, Allen Welling (Sandy Mahood) of Kenna and Ronnie Welling (Michele) of Kenna; Grandchildren, Amanda Payne (Eric), Amy Clontz (Kirk) and Corey Robinson (Kristi), all of Statesville and Nick, Sarah, Devin and Carter Welling of Kenna, WV; Great-grandchildren, Chloee and Truistan Payne, Haley and Abi Clontz and Ava and Hunter Robinson, all of Statesville, and a host of nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by a son, Justin R. Welling, grandson Donald Charles Robinson, sister Hazel Cunningham and nephew Jesse Thomas. A Celebration of the life of Charles Welling will be held Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Waybright Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Compton officiating. Interment will follow the service at the Moss Chapel Cemetery, Kenna. Friends may call at the funeral home from 5-8 p.m. Monday. Online condolences may be sent to www.waybrightfuneralhome.com. Service: Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at 1 P.M. Waybright Funeral Home Visitation: Monday, March 3, 2014 from 5-8 P.M. Waybright Funeral Home