Glendal Ray (Jeep) Ellis, 89, of Evansville, IN passed away Saturday, February 16, 2019 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. He was born in Huntingburg, IN on September 25, 1929, to Homer and Alberta Ellis.
Jeep was a 1948 graduate of Bosse High School. He fought in Korea in 1950 with the
A-1-1 1st Marines. He was part of The Chosin Few at the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea. He was a member of “C” Company USMC and worked on raising money for the Korean Monument on the riverfront from the very beginning until completion.
He retired from Bunny Bread after 21years and was a member of the Teamsters Local 215. He was an Honored member of the Kentucky Colonels, Life Member of the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, VFW 1114, the 1st Marine Division, and the Gray Beards (Korean Division). He was nicknamed “Jeep” out of the Popeye cartoon. He was a self-taught musician and was known for his fiddle playing. He played with several bands, the last band being Barren River Boys. He had also played at the Grand Ole Opry.
Jeep was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Bernita Simpson; and nephew, Daniel Simpson.
He is survived by his sister, Wanda Mae Toone; daughter, Rebecca Horstman (James David); sons, John Ellis (Diane) and Chris Ellis (Annette); grandchildren, Katy Horstman, Jennifer Ellis, Stephanie (Matt) Shirel, Kristy (John) Brandley and Brooke Ellis; great grandchildren, Hope McManaway and Emma Shirel.
Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 19, 2019 at Alexander East Chapel officiated by Fr. Bernie Etienne, with burial in Alexander Memorial Park. Friends may visit Monday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospital. Condolences may be offered at www.AlexandereEastChapel.com.
