Ellis met the love of his life, Patricia McIlroy in 1963, and the two were married that same year on November 13, 1963 in Pampa, Texas, residing in Texas for five years before moving to Oregon.
Ellis, in his early years worked as a carpenter, building homes and he enjoyed woodworking all his life. In 1974 he went to work for Gunduson Bros., retiring 25 years later after earning the nickname “Nailbender.” He started his career with Gunduson building tankers for the Alaska Pipe Line, and later moved on to building boxcars. He worked his way all the way up to foreman before retirement.
In his free time, Ellis loved to hunt, fish, and camp. Many memorable camping trips were taken with his children and family members through the years. Ellis also loved to play the mandolin, even going so far as to build his own. He also enjoyed rebuilding classic cars, and last worked on a '51 pickup. His brother Dale has taken up the reins on this restoration and will finish it to drive.
Ellis is survived by his beloved wife Pat; Daughters Bonnie (Marlon), Becky (Rich), Trisha (Nick); sons Doug (Annette), Jerry (Irene); brothers Dale Lee, Clyde Casey, Eldon Lee; and sister Ardine Carroll; 13 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.
A service of remembrance will be held on Sunday March 03, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. at Lincoln Memorial Park and Cemetery – 11801 SE Mt. Scott Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97086, please enter through gate 9.
A reception will be held following the service at Taborspace located at 5441 SE Belmont St, Portland, Oregon 97215.
The family would be grateful for donations in Ellis' name to the National Kidney Foundation, which may be made at https://www.kidney.org/support
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