Ellis was born on August 5, 1934 on the family farm in Sultan, Washington. He was the youngest of nine children born to Magdalena Neiffer and John Keck.
He was raised in Sultan where he learned the value of hard work on the farm. He joined the U.S. Navy, and upon completion of his service, he went to seminary and was ordained an American Baptist Minister. He served congregations in Los Angeles (California), Salt Lake City (Utah), Bountiful (Utah), Jerome (Idaho), and St. George (Utah). When he tried to retire, he found out he couldn’t and returned to semi-active ministry at First Baptist Church in Salt Lake City, where he became the Pastor Emeritus.
Rev. Keck loved the people he served and was much loved and respected for his wisdom and advice.
Ellis married his beloved Karen on November 5, 1974. They loved to go camping, travel, and spend quality time with their family.
Ellis is survived by his wife Karen and his children Marcie (Dave Ullrich) Keck, Rhoda (Bill) Keller, Coretta Hoffman, Shauna (Jim) Fuoco, Jeff Johansen, Loni (Ted) Valerio and Rick (Stacy) Johansen. His 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren whom he loved, and his older sister Pauline Langner. He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers and 3 sisters.
The family would like to thank the staff of William E. Christoffersen Veterans Home in Salt Lake City for their loving and tender care the last four years. They would also like to thank Jim Fuoco and Dennis McCracken for all their support and love.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 12:00 PM at First Baptist Church located at 777 South 1300 East in Salt Lake City, Utah. A visitation will be held from 11:00-11:45 AM. Ellis favorite color was blue, so please wear something blue to his service.
The family suggests memorials to the First Baptist Church Foundation located at 777 South 1300 East in Salt Lake City, Utah 84102.
