Condolence: Dear Nancy and the Wells Family, I am so, so sorry to hear about Judge Wells. He was my all-time favorite judge to ever practice in front of, and his retirement was one of the sadder days of my time in Clinton County, and I've missed him since we left. He was always fair and quick with a story or joke that was perfect for the situation. He and I had many conversations about everything for hours. I tell stories about him to people who have never met him, and everyone loves to hear about him. The Court will never see another like him. He was beloved, not just in the Courthouse, but in all aspects of life. My deepest condolences.

Condolence: Dear Nancy, My sympathy to you for the loss of your husband; he will be greatly missed. If you don't remember me, I'm Ken Bond's Mom; you were so wonderful to Ken when he was your student.

Condolence: Nancy and family-I was so saddened to hear of Judge Wells passing. Nancy I looked forward to going to Rellis hoping that I would see the both of you-always so friendly and kind! My heart goes out to you all. Prayers and hugs Brooke Samec

Condolence: I was a practicing attorney for over 25 years and Judge Wells is my all time favorite Judge to appear in front of. He was smart, prepared and had a great sense of justice. He also had compassion that I know 1st hand, for when my mother died he brought me into chambers to make sure I was doing alright. Finally Judge Wells had a great sense of humor. It was an honor and privilege to appear before him. I have since taken the bench myself where I quote Judge Wells often, especially to Clinton County Attorneys. Judge Wells will be greatly missed. Hon. John D. Maurer 56th Circuit Court

Condolence: Dear Wells Family, Dick was loved, admired and highly respected by our family. We are so sorry for your loss. God bless you.

Condolence: Going to miss Dick’s upbeat personality and outgoing friendliness. It has been a pleasure knowing Dick Wells. Our deepest sympathy to Nancy and the entire family.

Condolence: Dear Wells Family, Thinking of you in this difficult time. Praying for strength for you all and hope that these wonderful words about your husband and father give you comfort. Love to you all! Ann Woodward Gooch and family

Condolence: I was fortunate enough to spend a lot of time with this family during my high school years. I saw first hand what a loving husband and father Judge Wells was. My heart goes out to the entire family. You will be in my thought and prayers.

Condolence: Corey and Jody We are so very sorry to hear of your father(in-law) passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love The Engelman’s

Condolence: Dear Nancy and Family, Ginny and I are both saddened to hear of Dick's passing. He was a wonderful lawyer and an excellent District Judge. I always appreciated the way Dick could advocate zealously for his clients, while displaying a fine sense of humor. He was always well prepared when he entered the courtroom, and he was always a gentlemen. Clinton County has lost an admired community leader and a good friend. Ginny and are currently in Florida and we will not be able to attend the funeral, but wanted you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Jeff Martlew

Condolence: Nancy and family, so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Condolence: Nancy and family, Our hearts go out to you and the Wells family. I have known the Judge since the early 80's, first while he was in private practice and then as judge. All I can say was that he was the best in all respects. I'll never forget, and still often quote, his lectures given during sentencings. In 1999 we became neighbors and we got to know Nancy. I will always remember Dick working around the house whistling a happy tune! Sorry we can't be there to celebrate a great life.

Condolence: Rich, Nancy and I have been lifelong friends, having grown up together in Three Rivers. Rich and I and Al Urpsis shared one of those mini-dorm rooms designed for two in Shaw Hall at MSU. It was cramped and we shared one closet but we didn't know we were "deprived." We had a great time together. I hold dear all the memories we created through the years. Rich was always the optimist who made lemonade out of lemons and he was a joy to be around. Even though we live a full day's drive away Teri and I have had the blessing of spending more time with Rich and Nancy in recent years and getting to know the whole Wells clan much better. It's been of the treasures I will cherish forever. We'll share some tears together. But make no mistake, every time I think about the man he was and the life he lived, it brings a smile through the tears. Rich Wells was a man I loved and admired and I will miss him dearly.

Condolence: Although he has not lived in Three Rivers for many years, there are still many people here who remember him. He was a well respected member of the Michigan State District Judges Association. I enjoyed talking with him whenever I met him. He was one of 4 Three Rivers High Graduates who were on the Bench in Michigan. My sympathies to the Family. Jeff Middleton

Condolence: Of all the positive things I could say as a lawyer that appeared before Judge Wells 100s of times in the last 20 years, I will forever remember and miss his fairness and sense of humor. In a setting that can be unpleasant, Judge Wells could often times find a way to insert some levity and humor into the way he handled matters. I will miss him.

Condolence: Let me first say how very sorry I am at the news of Mr. Wells' passing. I offer my deepest condolences to the entire family. Mr. Wells was an iconic figure throughout my life. His outgoing, engaging, enthusiastic and confident personality made him seem invincible, which is why I am so shocked. In my mind, Mr. Wells was a person who transcended any barriers…including death. I first met Mr. Wells and his family at Higgins Lake back in 1976. My parents bought a cottage just two doors down from the Wells family. I have fond memories of the Wells van pulling up to their driveway on Friday evenings. Upon arrival, I could hear Mr. Wells distinctive, booming voice instructing the kids to unload the van, bring the groceries into the cottage, take the cover off the boat and make other preparations for the coming weekend fun. When he and his family arrived, Higgins Lake came to life. He was the quintessential husband, father and friend and nothing showcased this more than time spent at the lake. I was fortunate to see Mr. Wells and his family often during summers at Higgins Lake. Sadly, those regular visits ended just a few years later when my parents sold their cottage. Even so, I kept in contact with the Wells family over the years and decades. Even with his passing, Mr. Wells will remain an important figure in my life. The world lost a great man and I am grateful for having known him. May his memory live on through his family and friends and may he rest in eternal peace. With much love and respect, Steve Tocco & Family

Condolence: I am so very sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Condolence: Nancy and family, our deepest prayerful condolences. I have great memories of Dick, going back to 1976 when we came to St. Johns. After my appointment to the probate bench, I appointed him on many Juvenile Code cases. His competence and integrity were exceptional. His sterling reputation in the legal community led to his appointment to the district court bench. Dick soon gained a reputation for hard work and smart work. The State Court Administrator wisely appointed him to assist other courts to help with their dockets. Dick viewed his judicial vocation as a sacred ministry in justice, and not just a job. My professional respect for Dick evolved into a cherished friendship over the years. I shall miss him. May the Supreme Judge of us all welcome Dick with this Gospel Greeting: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Nancy and family, we pray that the Good Shepherd lay His healing hand upon you at this time of trial. Please call on us if we can help. Marv and Tita

Condolence: So sorry you have lost your best friend and love of your life. I have many fond memories of him. Hugs to you and your family. Linda

Condolence: We are so very sorry for your loss of a dad, grandpa and husband. We met Dick and Nancy at one of the many gatherings at Mindis house along with her siblings. Dick always had that friendly manner and huge smile and made us feel welcome as new comers to Michigan all those years ago. Loved Always seeing him in the stands to cheer on Sammi, no matter what the weather was that day. We so enjoyed the times we did talk with him and are so saddened at his passing. What a wonderful man he was! Hugs to you all and our love, Brenda, Jim, Chelsea, Dylan and Allison Schloss