Charles Richard Ellinwood

Chuck was born in Moline, Illinois, and was the son of Dewitt Ellinwood and Lola (Penn) Ellinwood. He had one brother, Dewitt Ellinwood Jr. (1923-2012). His father was a Methodist pastor and inspired Chuck to become a pastor. Chuck served in the Indiana United Methodist Conference for forty years from 1955 until he retired in 1995. Chuck attended Depauw University, where he met the love of his life, Susanna (Sue) Belle (Bowers) Ellinwood. Charles graduated from Depauw in 1951 and went on to receive his Master’s in Divinity from Drew University in 1955.

Sue, his loving wife, passed away on August 23, 2014. Chuck and Sue had four children: Cynthia M. Ellinwood-Boyer (Leland) of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Philip K. Ellinwood (Gunita) of Campbell, California, Steven P. Ellinwood (Laura) of Fort Wayne and Jill D. Ellinwood (Steven) of Baraboo Wisconsin. He had eight grandchildren: Lesilyn (Joe), Paul (Abby) Nicholas (Amy), Alexander, (Kelton) Alexa (Aaron), Chase (Chelsea), Connor and Rian. Chuck was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren: Adeline, Amelia, Penn, Sunny, Gideon, Ezra, Penelope, Audrey, Lucy and Aiden.

Chuck was an encourager and always saw the best in others. His caring and love were expansive. During his life, his circle of family and loved ones grew to include people all over the world. Chuck and Sue travelled in over forty of the states of the United States and five continents. Many of the trips were work mission experiences. From the relationships of that caring by Chuck and Sue, two international students have become a part of the Ellinwood family: Gerard (Burundi/Oklahoma), Nancy (Zimbabwe/California).

In retirement, Chuck and Sue moved to Elk Lake in Michigan. They began vacationing on Elk Lake in 1956. In retirement, they became a vibrant part of the northern Michigan community, volunteering in many organizations, including Central United Methodist Church in Traverse City, Michigan.

Chuck’s favorite past times included playing tennis, skiing, playing cribbage and cards, watching Purdue sports, reading, singing, and listening to classical music.

The family would like to express gratitude for the care and support Chuck received from the staff at Heritage Point and for the friendships he made during his time there.

Gifts of thankfulness for Chuck’s life may be given to Africa University for scholarships for students in lieu of flowers.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 6, 2025, at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, located at 4700 Vance Ave., Fort Wayne, IN, 46815, United States. Calling will be from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with a funeral service at 1:00 pm.