Richard Allen Ellis

Rick was born in New Philadelphia, Ohio. He graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 1965 and continued his education at Ohio University. After graduation from there in 1969, he served as a KC-135 pilot in the US Air Force, completing several tours in Vietnam. After five years on active duty, he served in the Air Force reserves, eventually reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Using the GI Bill to further his education at Ohio State University, Rick earned master's and PhD degrees in environmental engineering. After spending some years at Tennessee Valley Authority, he founded his own company, Advanced Waste Management. The company, which does environmental auditing, provided him with opportunities to fuel his passion for travel and adventure- a close encounter with an elephant in Zimbabwe or a walk with penguins on a glacier in Tierra del Fuego, for example.

Rick enjoyed reading and learning, a lifetime filled with pets, and most especially family: wife of 57 years Diane, son Rob, daughter in law Jen, and grandchildren Ryan and Maddie. He always believed that Ryan and Maddie' would carry forward values that were so important to him- honesty, determination, and kindness. He will be missed.

There will be a private family service with military honors at Chattanooga National Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com