Gene was raised on a farm in rural Illinois, the youngest of seven children. He graduated from Mt. Zion High School, and the Engineering School at the University of Illinois, where he was a member of ROTC. He then served in the U.S. Army stationed in California and Alaska where he earned the rank of Captain.
Gene’s career included positions as an engineer for the Texas Oil Company and General Electric. He also represented the Southeast for the American Institute of Steel Construction and then served as executive vice president of the Carolinas Branch of Associated General Contractors. In 1987, he accepted a position at the City of Raleigh and advanced to the Inspections Director where he managed a staff of 155 people. He retired in 2005 at age 75, a testament to his respected work ethic.
Gene’s life focused around his love for his wife, five children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was devoted to his beloved and beautiful wife Marcia and they enjoyed a wonderful storybook marriage for 60 years prior to her death in 2011. Affectionately known as “Marsh and RG” they never stopped being best friends and loved each other’s company. Gene moved back to Charlotte in 2014 to be near his children.
In addition to his family, Gene had many interests over his lifetime. He was a man of faith and was an active member of SouthPark Church when he returned to Charlotte. He absolutely loved the United States of America and was tremendously proud of his and others’ military service. He was passionate about golf and enjoyed his walking and swim workouts. He was inquisitive and curious and never stopped learning. He was an avid reader, sudoku player and a puzzle master.
Gene is survived by his children: Kim Ellis (Anna), Van Ellis (Sally), Steve Ellis (Sharon), Chris Ellis, Gail Wherry (Mark)
Grandchildren: Kim Ellis Jr. (McKenzie), Kasey Chmelik (James), Adam Ellis, Jessica Jaramillo (Matt), Kimberly Williams (Amanda), Wesley Williams (Megan), Tayler Ellis, John Ellis, David Wherry, Chad Wherry (Ali)
Great grandchildren, Madison Ellis, Liza and Drew Ellis, Caroline and Carter Chmelik
An outdoor graveside service for family and friends will be held Monday, January 24, 2022 at 1:00 pm at Forest Lawn East, 3109 Forest Lawn Drive, Matthews, NC, 28104.
Memorial contributions may be made to SouthPark Church, 3151 Apex Drive, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28211 or online at https/www.southparkchurch.com where they will be directed to the Pinewood Elementary School Outreach Program, which Gene fully supported.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com for the Ellis family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18