Ellis Wayne Otwell

Ellis Wayne Otwell, born June 16, 1937, passed away Sat. Aug. 4, 2012 while at home with his wife Barbara. A Ventura Co. resident for nearly 60 years, Ellis came to CA from Louisiana to work in the oil fields.

Two families took Ellis in and claimed him as their son. Estel & Edith Newport of Santa Paula and Bill & Helen Wilbanks of Saticoy all had big hearts and welcomed Ellis into their families. Their children: Bruce, Kay & Barbara Newport and Fae & Billie Wilbanks became like brothers and sisters to him.

After 2 terms in the U.S. Army, Ellis owned Otwell Oil Tools for over 30 years and had shops in Ventura and Bakersfield. Later he owned several bars including the "Sans Souci" and the "Ironside" restaurant on Main Street. He was a member of the American Legion, The Footprinters Intl., Moose Intl.; he was honored with a lifetime membership to the Ventura Elks Lodge and was a member of the Los Borrachos Motorcycle Club for over 30 years. He loved riding his "Honda Gold Wing" and looked forward every year to their trip to Laughlin. He and his late brother Bob loved their trips to Vegas and going fishing. Ellis was a generous man who always helped those in need. He would help the kids who raised animals for sale at the fair, by making huge bids and then encouraging his friends to do the same.

Ellis loved his 2 black Labradors. After C.C. died in 2004, he found Rena. He claimed she was the best dog in the world and spent many hours with her. Rena has been very ill but, raised her head Sat. to say goodbye to him for the last time.

Ellis was preceded in death by his parents: Clyde & Salina Otwell, his brothers Clyde & Bob Otwell and his sister Theresa Ludaescher. He now leaves behind his wife Barbara (of 53 years); sons: Rick (wife Alicia) Otwell and Richard McCombs; grandsons: Bobby, Carter, Dakotah, Dominic, Justin and Tucker; granddaughters: Ashley and Megan; sister, Diane Berg; many nieces, nephews and good friends.

Ellis had a great sense of humor and always kept everyone laughing. He had an uncanny way of making everyone feel like his best friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Charles Carroll Funeral Home in Ventura. Phone 805-642-8134.