02/05/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share the obituary for Velmar, the patriarch of our family and the heart of this farm. He lived a long, full life rooted in hard work, faith in the land, and deep love for his family. The lessons he taught and the example he set will continue to guide us every day as we care for this farm and carry his legacy forward. We are deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness shown to our family and our farm during this time.
C. Velmar Green, age 88, of Elsie, Michigan passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his daughter, Margery and her husband Mark VanAtta, and son Craig Green and his wife Darcy. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Kelvin, Justin (Erin), and Corbie, and brother-in-law Brad Henderson. He is predeceased by his wife Margaret and their infant daughter Jennifer, his parents Merle and Hope Green, his brother and sister-in-law M. Duane and Grace Green, his son-in-law Wayne Webster, and his sister-in-law Margery Henderson.
Velmar was raised on his family farm in Elsie, graduating as Valedictorian from Elsie High School in 1955, before attending Michigan State where he graduated from the honors collage Suma-Cum-Laude, in 1959. During his youth he worked on the farm and also rode the railcars, showing Green Meadow Farms’ Holsteins at some of the most prestigious shows across the country. After graduating college he and his brother Duane came back to the farm to work side by side with their father Merle. He married Margaret Ann Gill February 24 1968, after knowing each other from early childhood, and was blessed with 55 years of marriage.
Velmar’s passion for agriculture continued as he assumed increasing responsibility within industry, trade, and government appointments. He served on the Michigan Milk Producers Association board for 42 years, as chairman of the Michigan Commission on Agriculture & Rural Development, and was inducted into the Michigan Farmers Hall of fame. He was also recognized as Dairyman of the year at the World Dairy Expo in 2013.
Velmar traveled extensively during his tenure on the boards of National Beef, MMPA, and National Milk Producers Federation. His passion for seeing and learning about the world continued later in life as he and Margaret developed a passion for cruising, a hobby they shared with their grandson Justin and great nephew Ben. His love of showing and judging cows continued throughout his life and his grandson Kelvin and granddaughter Corbie are continuing that legacy today.
Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, MI, on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Carol Kusnier officiating. Burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery, Elsie, MI. Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 2-8 P.M. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Elsie Lions Club, 9294 East French Road, Elsie, MI 48831 or the Michigan Junior Holstein Association at 4825 Lincoln Lake Ave. Lowell, MI 49331.
