Edward Wellin

Edward Wellin died, peacefully at home in Madison, supported by loved ones and hospice professionals on Thursday, April the 5th, 2018. Born in Phoenix, N.Y., Edward grew up in Worcester, MA, the son of Eli Wellin and Anna Schnaerson who had emigrated from the Ukraine. He had seven siblings, one of whom, Jeannette Herrick of Washington, DC, survives him.

After completing high school, Edward was an apprentice machinist in Worcester. After his father's death in 1937 he became a provider for the family and enlisted in the army to serve in the Second World War (Corps of Engineers).

He attended Syracuse University, earning a Bachelor's degree in anthropology, and then a Ph.D. in anthropology at Harvard University, in the Department of Social Relations. A specialist in the fields of medical and applied anthropology, Edward was employed by the American Public Health Association, Rutgers University, and for some 25 years was professor of anthropology at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. He taught thousands of undergrads, mentored graduate students, and produced scholarship that has had a significant and lasting impact.

Edward was twice married, first to the late Helen Haggerty Wellin, with whom he had three children (Susan, Sara, and Christopher) before divorcing; and then to Doris Peyser Slesinger, with whom he lived in Madison for decades. She and her son David preceded him in death. He also leaves behind step-sons Jeffrey and Paul Slesinger, many grandchildren, neighbors and friends. He volunteered with the United Way and Madison's Public School System.

A visitation will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison.

Cress Funeral and Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Rd, Madison
608- 238-3434