John George Weltz, Jr.

John George Weltz, Jr. was born on June 24, 1952, at Savanna Hospital in Savanna. He was the beloved son of John George Weltz Sr. and Geraldine A. (Griese) Weltz.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carol Perce; and his grandparents, Henry Weltz, Anna Weltz, Archie Griese, and Elsie Peters.

He is survived by his brother, Gerald Giddings, a daughter, Gena Orth and husband Jerry. He also leaves behind three granddaughters: Nicole Karberg and husband Nate, Ashley Blahnik and husband Josh and Aarica Orth and (special friend Tony), as well as six great-grandchildren: Lily, Allauna, Kayden, Averie, Colton, and Kobe.

John was united in marriage to the love of his life, Barbara Jean, on April 28. She was his devoted companion until her passing in 2008. Barbara brought a daughter, Gena, into their marriage, whom John lovingly welcomed and raised as his own.

John shared a close and lifelong bond with his cousins, Martin Altensey and wife Janet and Matthew Altensey and family, whom he affectionately referred to as brothers.

He was also blessed with a faithful and cherished companion, BeBe, who brought him great comfort and joy. They would enjoy many walks together and she was very dear to him.

John shared a dear friendship with Ralph Wagner, with whom he enjoyed many memorable vacations and experiences.

A man of strong faith and values, John loved his church, God, and country.

John attended St. John’s Catholic Grade School and Savanna High School, graduating in 1971. He was a proud and active member of the Savanna Moose Lodge #195 and the Knights of Columbus #1088.

He dedicated more than 40 years of service to the railroad industry, working for the Chicago & North Western Railroad in Clinton, Iowa, before transferring to the Union Pacific Railroad car shop in DeSoto, Missouri. He retired on July 5, 2012.

Above all, John cherished time spent with his wife, Barb. Following her passing, he greatly valued visits to Illinois and time with his daughter Gena and her family.

A graveside service will be held at St. John’s Cemetery, 815 Viaduct Rd.in Savanna, Illinois on April 25, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. with Rev. Julius Clarero officiating. John will be laid to rest with his wife Barbara. Memorial donations may be made in John's honor to St. Jude's Children's Research, www.stjude.org. May he rest in eternal peace.

John will be remembered for his kind spirit, his love of playing cards, and the warm smile he so freely shared with others.