The City of Westland is mourning the loss of a beloved public servant who dedicated her life to helping others. Beth Welkenbach, Westland’s Senior Resources Director, died on August 30, 2026, at the age of 60, following a courageous battle with cancer . A former educator who spent 30 years in the classroom before transitioning to public service, Welkenbach was remembered by colleagues and family alike for her compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the people she served.
Beth Welkenbach, 60, the Senior Resources Director for the City of Westland, Michigan, died on August 30, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. A former teacher of 30 years, she was known for her compassion, adventurous spirit, and dedication to serving others. She is survived by her daughters, Hannah and Molly, and her grandchildren .
A Life of Service
From Teacher to Public Servant
Born Elizabeth Borgelt on March 11, 1966, in Livonia, Michigan, Beth dedicated her professional life to service . She began her career as an educator in the Dearborn Heights School District, where she taught for three decades . A graduate of Bishop Borgess High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Madonna University and her master’s from Marygrove College .
After retiring from education, she was appointed as the Senior Resources Director for the City of Westland . In this role, she became a champion for the city’s senior community, organizing programs and services that allowed older adults to remain connected and supported . Mayor Kevin Coleman praised her contributions, stating: “Beth was a valued member of our City of Westland team and dedicated herself to serving our senior community with compassion and care” .
Family and Personal Life
Beth was the beloved wife of the late Craig Welkenbach, who preceded her in death in 2024 . She is survived by her daughters, Hannah and Molly Pummill; her grandchildren, Gryffin, Bayne, and Koby; her brother, Steve Borgelt; and her nieces and nephews, Zach, Meaghan, and Peter .
Her family remembered her as a devoted mother and grandmother who was her daughters’ “biggest fan” and enthusiastically supported her “bonus grandkids” at their sporting events . She loved traveling, reading, and spending time with those closest to her .
Tributes from the Community
City of Westland
The City of Westland issued an official statement expressing its condolences: “The City of Westland is deeply saddened by the passing of Senior Resources Director Beth Welkenbach… Her commitment to our residents and to the work of the Senior Resources Department made a meaningful impact on many lives throughout our community” .
Family Tribute
Her brother, Steve Borgelt, shared a poignant tribute on social media: “It’s with tears in my eyes I say good-bye to my favorite sister and best friend after one hell of a battle with Cancer. Beth, right now Dad and Craig are saying ‘Shit here comes Beth, hide the cigarettes’ When ya see Paul give him a hug for me. Love You Kiddo” .
Memorial Services
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the L.J. Griffin Funeral Home, 7707 Middlebelt Road in Westland, from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. , with a time of family sharing beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Beth Welkenbach?
Beth Welkenbach was the Senior Resources Director for the City of Westland, Michigan. She was a former educator who spent 30 years teaching before transitioning to public service .
What was Beth Welkenbach’s cause of death?
Beth Welkenbach died on August 30, 2026, after a long battle with cancer .
How old was Beth Welkenbach?
She was 60 years old. She was born on March 11, 1966 .
Who were Beth Welkenbach’s family members?
She was preceded in death by her husband, Craig Welkenbach. She is survived by her daughters, Hannah and Molly Pummill; her grandchildren, Gryffin, Bayne, and Koby; her brother, Steve Borgelt; and her nieces and nephews .
Where did Beth Welkenbach work?
Beth taught for 30 years in the Dearborn Heights School District before becoming the Senior Resources Director for the City of Westland .
Conclusion
Beth Welkenbach’s life was defined by an unwavering commitment to helping others. From her 30-year career in education to her work with Westland’s senior community, she touched countless lives with her compassion, resilience, and genuine care. Her legacy will live on through the thousands of students she taught, the seniors she served, and the family who adored her. Her brother’s final words capture the spirit of a woman who lived fully and loved deeply: “Love You Kiddo” .