John W. Ellis Jr.

John William Ellis Jr., 86, Kokomo, went to be with our Lord on Sunday, March 17, 2019 with family by his side. He was born on September 8, 1932. He graduated from Kokomo High School before enlisting in the United States Air Force where he served as a medic stationed in Rapid City, South Dakota. It was there he met his sweetheart, Dorothy Rachel Duran. They were married April 14, 1956 in Kokomo. John worked as a chemist for Haynes International for 42 years. He was a faithful parishioner at St. Joan of Arc where he sang in and directed the parish choir. He was a selfless volunteer who gave his time to Samaritan Caregivers, The Coalition for the Blind, The American Red Cross, and others. John was an avid sports fan and loved to root for his favorite Chicago Cubs, Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, IU basketball, and Notre Dame football. His love of music extended beyond the church choir, and his days were filled with song, whether in his own home or taking in Kokomo Park Band concerts. He could often be found sitting on his back porch enjoying the weather, a cold beer in hand. He loved any excuse to gather with family and friends, be it for breakfast after Mass, a summer cookout, holiday party, or just to share in each other’s company. He was beloved by his children and grandchildren. Surviving him are his three daughters, Ellen (Dean) Baker of Bunker Hill, Joan (Randy) Daine of Kokomo, and Geralyn Ellis of Kokomo. Grandchildren include Andrea Daine of Fishers, Dustin (Kelsee) Baker of Peru, Taylor Daine of Indianapolis, Katie (Scott) Bolinger of Fishers and great-grandchildren Mason, Roree and Myles Baker. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Dorothy, and three siblings. The family request that masses be given on John’s behalf. A public viewing will be held at Ellers Mortuary Webster St. chapel on Friday March 22, 2019 from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. Funeral service will be held at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church on Saturday March 23, 2019 at 10:00am. Burial will be in Sunset Memory Gardens immediately after the mass. You can find John’s obituary at www.ellersmortuarywebster.com where you can sign the guest book or send a personal message to the family.