Marianne S. Welna

Marianne S. Welna, 92, of Palm Beach, Florida (formerly of New Britain, CT) passed away on November 30, 2025 at her home, after a long and valiant fight with illness.

Marianne was born in New Britain, CT on June 2, 1933 to Dr. Ladislaus B. Slysz and his wife Katherine (nee Kusmer). She graduated from Sacred Heart School, and went on to attain degrees from Abbott Academy and The College of New Rochelle.

While matriculating at Cornell Nursing, Marianne got engaged to her true soul mate, Dr. Joseph A. Welna, and the two were married in September of 1957. Marianne spent the next two years in Boston while Joe completed internship and residency. After a brief stint as an Army wife in Lawton, Oklahoma, Marianne returned with her husband to their home town of New Britain, Connecticut. The two would go on to raise a family and were avid supporters of the Polish American community. Marianne was a caring and devoted wife, mother, and daughter. Her steadfast commitment to those she loved was an inspiration.

Marianne was an ardent tennis player, enjoying the camaraderie of friends for decades. She was also a loyal first mate to her husband, exploring the waters of Long Island Sound and beyond on their boat "Syrena". When Joe retired, Marianne moved to Palm Beach, Florida where she spent her golden years enjoying time with Joe, family, and friends.

Marianne is survived by her son and daughter in law, Joseph B. and Marcia Welna of Boston; and many loved nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 10 AM at Holy Cross Church in New Britain, CT. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Calling hours are Thursday, December 11, 2025 from 5-7 PM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin, 111 Chamberlain Hwy., Berlin.