Ronald Cresswell Ellis

January 29, 1933 - March 3, 2013

Survived by his wife of 49 years, Marianne Ellis; son, Thomas Ellis; daughter, Veronica Barfield; six grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild.

Ronnie was born in Ballarat, Australia. He served 2 years in the Australian Defense Force as a butcher. He joined the circus in Australia as the catcher in the Flying Waynes. He came to the USA when he joined Ringling Brothers Circus in 1962 and performed with the Flying Waynes through 1968. He then became the purchasing agent until the early 1970’s when he left circus life. He then worked for the Lindsay family who owned the Sarasota Herald Tribune. There, he enjoyed many years as a painter, lawn maintenance man and all around handy man for the very nice Lindsay family. In October of 1977, Ron proudly became a citizen of the United States of America. In his latter years, he enjoyed listening to music, playing pool with his wife and grandchildren, and watching the birds out his back window with his wife.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Ron's name to the Sarasota Baptist Church at 7091 Proctor Road, Sarasota, FL 34241. Ron will be cremated and a graveside service will be held at Palms-Robarts Memorial Park at 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL. A Celebration of Life will be held at the home of his son, Thomas Ellis, immediately following the service.

Condolences may be offered at www.palmsrobartsfuneralhome.com.