Jack was born in Olmstead, KY on 31 October 1944, to John Edward and Ida Ester Ellis. At the age of 4, his mother and father moved him, his sister and brothers to Moline, KS, where he attended school and graduated from Moline High School in 1962.
In July of 1965, Jack enlisted in the United States Army. After completing his basic training in Fort Lewis, Washington, he served in Vietnam as a Turbine Helicopter Mechanic in the 161st Aviation Company, 14th Battalion, 17th Group where he served as Crew Chief until he was honorably discharged in May of 1967 after having served nearly 2 years. During his service to our country, Jack was awarded several medals and commendations.
After returning home from Vietnam, Jack began a career as a boiler maker, traveling across the southern United States, mainly focusing on the welding of large petroleum tanks and water towers.
In 2002, Jack married his wife, Vera Stanly Ellis. The 2 remained wed until her death in the summer of 2019.
Jack is preceded in death by his wife, Vera, his parents John and Ida, his sister Francis and 6 of his 7 brothers, Bob, John, Bill, E.W., Horace and Ben Gary. He is survived by his brother Doug Ellis and wife Karlita, of Elkton, KY, his 3 children, Gene Ellis and wife Sharon of Belton, TX, Robin Hofstra and husband Travis of Spring, TX and Ryan Ellis, and wife Tristan of North Liberty, IA, 8 grandchildren, Courtney, Brandon, Loren, Cody, Brittany, Emily, Braden and Kallen, and 3 great grandchildren, Jared, Bryson and Sophia.
Services for Jack will be held at Forest Park East in Webster, Texas on Saturday 17 October 2020. The family will receive visitors for the deceased from 1pm until 3pm followed by a Celebration of Life and graveside service at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the ASPCA at https://www.aspca.org/ways-to-give or to the 100 Club of Central Texas at https://100clubcentex.com/support-us/ in remembrance of Jack Ellis.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18