Brian Michael Welburn, 35, loving son, brother, grandson, uncle, and friend, died unexpectedly
on August 30, 2023, in his home in Traverse City. He leaves behind many who will miss him
dearly.
Brian was born to Anne and John Welburn in Detroit, Michigan on November 6, 1987 – their
much-loved BMW! A 2005 graduate of Traverse City West Senior High School, Brian's love of
adventure led him to work in Park City, Utah before returning to Traverse City, the place he
always called home. He will be remembered especially for his quick wit and unique sense of
humor, his entrepreneurial spirit, and the way he entertained his nieces and nephews with his
bushy red mane and his Brian the Lion laugh. His family and friends (who called him "Wubba")
always enjoyed his creative and skilled cooking, whether in the family kitchen, in local
restaurants, or at his award-winning King Wubbz Pita Dubbz food truck. The chant "Krewnocka
Krewnocka Krew" with his friends in the Krew sums up the way Brian lived life.
Brian is survived by his parents, Anne and John Welburn, his sister Jess (Ryan) Geetings and
children Aiden, Addison, Austin, and Autumn, his brother Rich (Lexi) Ruelas and children Enzo,
Alena, and Mateo, his grandmother Polly Welburn, all of Traverse City, his grandmother Connie
Kinner of Avon, Ohio, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and his good canine friend, Duke.
Brian's younger brother Joe preceded him in death in 2010.
All are invited to celebrate Brian's life on Saturday, September 16 at Twin Lakes Park, 6800 N
Long Lake Road in Traverse City beginning at 4:00 pm. The family invites you to make a donation
to the charity of your choice in memory of Brian's giving soul.