Charles Lynn Wells

Charles “Lynn” Wells, age 75, a longtime resident of Novi, passed away on April 19, 2023. He was born on April 17, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan; son of James and Verlene (Nunn) Wells. Lynn grew up in Taylor, Michigan, graduating from Taylor Center High School in 1966. After graduation, he studied business at Michigan State University, then continued his studies earning an MBA at Eastern Michigan University and a Juris Doctorate degree at the University of Detroit. Lynn married the love of his life, Marjorie “Margie” Rader on September 21, 1968 and dedicated the next 55 years to her.

While earning his MBA in the early 1970s, Lynn started working for Ford Motor Company as a janitor. After receiving his law degree, he continued on at Ford managing their worldwide insurance operations where he spent the next 30 plus years. In addition to his career at Ford, Lynn also taught Negotiable Instruments and Business Law at the Detroit College of Business for many years. He was known for having an outstanding relationship with his students and consistently receiving excellent professor reviews.

Lynn was a passionate model railroader, maintaining a large collection of Lionel trains and was a key member of the National Model Railroad Association. His collection was constantly evolving, and he maintained lifelong friendships while actively recruiting new members to join the association. Lynn also had an extensive book collection; he loved reading historical books, primarily those that focused on the Civil War. Inspired by his Architectural Digest magazine, he was a fabulous home decorator and had a knack for making things aesthetically pleasing. Lynn was also an avid drawer. While he could draw anything, he was particularly known for his Biblical drawings in the Temple Baptist Church newspaper. The only thing that Lynn loved more than his trains and books, was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. A true family man, he was incredibly affectionate and loved hosting celebrations and holidays. Lynn was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend; he will be missed by all who knew him.

Lynn is survived by his wife Margie; his sons, Christopher (Jen) Wells and Dorian (Abezash) Wells; his grandchildren, Troy, Tanner, and Fred; his brothers, James (Karen) Wells, Dennis (Phillis) Wells, and Doug (Janice) Wells; his sister Sharon Burgess; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother-in-law Kelly Burgess, and his nephew Remington Wells.

A celebration of life is planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions in Lynn’s name be made to Open Arms Hospice , 39500 West 10 Mile Road, Suite 101A, Novi, Michigan 48375.