He played football at George Washington University where he also received a Masters degree. Ellis was drafted by legendary coach Vince Lombardi to play for the Green Bay Packers. After an injury, he assisted with coaching at the University of Maryland and the farm Club 4 of the Redskins: the Buckskins. He was head coach at Washington-Lee High School in Arlington until he joined Madison College’s football team in 1972 as Defensive Coordinator. He later owned and managed the Trophy Shop, Harrisonburg, until his death.
Along with his passion for football, he loved the Harrisonburg Elks Lodge #450. Ellis was a warm and easy-going man who loved animals and was kind to everyone.
He is survived by his wife, Erika Wisler, of Harrisonburg, along with nieces and nephews in Maryland, Missouri and Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jessi Wisler, his brother, Howard, and his parents, Ellis B. Wisler, Sr. and Marguerite Wisler .
A final “toast” and memorial for Ellis will be held at the Harrisonburg Elks Lodge #450, Sunday, May 20, 2018 at 3:00 pm.
