William Gaston Ellis

William Gaston Ellis-known to most as Bill-passed away suddenly on February 11, 2025, with his wife of nearly 35 years, Joan, his sons Matthew and his daughter Susanna by his side. Though he was unable to speak, we all said our goodbyes, and he listened to phone calls from those who couldn't be there, including his son John. He was 83.

Throughout his life, he wore many hats—athlete, military officer, soccer coach, business analyst, technical writer, and advocate for those in need. In retirement, he became a writer, publishing numerous fiction books that reflected his experiences, perspectives, and the ups and downs of life. One of his books was notably titled *A Good Man*—and that’s exactly what he was. He was our hero.

Bill believed that teaching was "the most noble profession" and dedicated himself to serving others in many ways. He taught writing courses for troubled youth through Americorps in Fruita, and local area schools. He was an active member of Longmont Writers' Club, and contributed guest opinions in The Longmont Times Call. He also worked with local law enforcement through their Longmont Community Justice Partnership, believing deeply in giving people a second chance when they truly needed one.

There’s never a right time to say goodbye, but we don’t get to choose when that moment comes. We take comfort in knowing he’s writing among the angels. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

William Gaston Ellis

Born: December 14, 1941, in Martinsville, Virginia, to Dewey and Edith Ellis

Passed: February 11, 2025

Education

- Martinsville High School: National Honor Society; First Chair Trombone, Virginia All-State Sight Reading Band; Second Team Group II All-State Football (1960)

- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill: B.A. in Political Science (1964)

- American University, Washington, D.C.: Master of Public Administration (1973)

Military Service

- U.S. Army Signal Corps (1967-1969)

- Chief of Administrative Services, USA Stratcom-Europe, Heidelberg, Germany

Federal Government Career

- National Archives (1970-1982)

- GSA Training Institute, Washington, D.C. (1982-1985)

- Chief of Records Policy, Bureau of Reclamation (1986-1993, retired)

Legacy & Contributions

- Published author of six novels and over 200 guest opinion pieces in *The Times-Call*

- Active member of the Longmont Writers’ Club (2003-present)

- Volunteer for the Longmont Community Justice Partnership

- Longtime participant in the Citizens’ Open Forum at the Longmont Senior Center

Family

Bill is survived by his wife of nearly 35 years, Joan, and his children: John, Matt, and Susanna Evans (Kele). He was a beloved grandpa to Rene'e, Emily, Miles, and Maya. He is also remembered by his stepdaughters, Kim Olson (Scott), Lisa Darrah, and Jen Place (Gus), along with their children: Anna, Ashley, Garrett, Marin, Gavin, Logan, Halle and Drew.

Celebration of Life

Saturday, March 8th

Longmont Senior Center

910 Longs Peak Avenue, Longmont, CO 80501

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Military Honors at 1:30 PM

In lieu of flowers or donations, please honor Bill’s legacy by volunteering with local community organizations.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com with his family.