Chad Christian WellsBattle CreekChad Christian Wells, 43, of Battle Creek, Michigan passed away with peace and grace on December 19th, 2016 after a long battle with brain cancer.  He was born on March 8, 1973 in Battle Creek, Michigan to parents George and Jean Wells.  A decorated high school student-athlete at Battle Creek Central, Chad excelled in both baseball and football.  As a pitcher, he was fortunate enough to strike out Derek Jeter…three times! After graduation, he settled in Newark, Ohio where he met and married the former Laura Brown. Their marriage ended in divorce.Chad attended both Kellogg Community College and The Ohio State University at Newark.  He had a unique ability to connect with all types of people, and spent many years in the restaurant and insurance businesses.  Chad enjoyed following many sports, and was an avid Michigan fan and a weary Detroit Lions supporter.  He also loved Detroit Tigers baseball and was a huge collector of sports cards.  Chad had a passion for music of all types, but especially 80's rock and heavy metal.  He was kind and friendly, and despite his prognosis, faced his illness with bravery and dignity.Chad is survived by his parents George and Jean Wells, along with brothers Seth (Rebecca) Wells and Todd Wells. He is also survived by his grandparents Bert and Marian Miller, and his aunts Lynn Miller and Mary Wells.  He will be missed by his two cousins Sara (Erik) Johnson and Emily Haubenstricker, as well as his Uncle Kurt (Judy) Miller.  Chad also leaves behind JJ Haubenstricker and second cousins Matteus, Owen, Sawyer, and Hayden.  His niece Ella and nephew Seth Jr. will also miss him dearly, but are very sure he is sorting baseball cards, taking batting practice, or playing with stuffed animals in Heaven.  He was preceded in death by his second cousin Kieffer Johnson as well as grandfather Harvey Wells and grandmother Vivian Wells.Chad had many life adventures and will be remembered by a multitude of friends, who always appreciated his ability to have fun with anyone.  He had a lasting, positive influence on everyone he knew.  He will be missed.Friends will be received 4:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, December 23, 2016 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 105 Capital Avenue N.E., Battle Creek, MI 49017.A celebration of life service will be held 6:00-11:00 p.m. Friday, January 13, 2017, at Riverside Country Club, 245 E. Columbia Ave., Battle Creek, MI 49015.Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Care of SW Michigan, Rose Arbor Hospice Residence or the .  Personal messages and remembrances for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.