Ivan M. Wellman of Waco, Nebraska, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Ivan was born in York, Nebraska, on June 9, 1948, to Marvin and Elsa Wellman (née Hoffschneider). He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waco, where he remained a lifetime member. Ivan was a 1966 graduate of Waco High School and married Mary Bristol during their winter break from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in December 1968. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 1970, he returned home to the family farm south of Waco, where he enjoyed a lifelong career in agriculture.
Ivan is survived by his children, Jeff (Heather) Wellman of Waco and Cathie (Joel) Brady of Barrington, Illinois; grandchildren Andrew (Jocelyn) Wellman of Lincoln, Jack Wellman of Waco, and Ivan and Willa Brady of Barrington; sisters Jane Bunnett of York, Judeen (Ross) Rikli of Murdock, and Kathleen (Kermit) Brashear of Omaha; brothers- and sisters-in-law Maryann Bristol of York, Susan (Allan) Marquart of Mason City, and Judy (Mark) Schernikau of Oakland; as well as 16 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; his parents, Marvin and Elsa; his father-and mother-in-law, Rupert and Evelyn Bristol; and brothers-in-law William Bunnett, Mike Bristol, and Leonard Johnsen.
Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church south of Waco, with Rev. Matthew Mau officiating. Ivan has been cremated. There is no visitation or viewing, however the family will begin greeting friends and visitors at 12:30 p.m., at the church, following a private family graveside service. In lieu of flowers and plants, memorial donations are suggested to Lutheran Family Services or Orphan Grain Train.