Merle Ellis

Merle Ellis Schoolcraft Mi. Merle passed peacefully in his sleep at White Oaks Assisted Living and Dementia Care on Thursday March 11, 2010. Born October 12, 1921 in Jefferson County Ill., son of Ray and Nadine (Hayse) Ellis. Married Dorothy Ione Fox, November 26, 1945, who preceded him in death. Merle was a basketball and track star in High School and served in the US Navy during WWII. He worked at the State Hospital in Kalamazoo and was a Police Officer for the City before his employment at the Upjohn Co. Merle also ran the family business, Ellis Sales, Inc. until he retired in 1980 to the Florida Keys. He returned to Schoolcraft, Mi in 1999 where he enjoyed working in his yard. He was an avid sportsman and fisherman throughout his life. He had a sister, Opal (Eber) Slover and a brother Donald, both who preceded him in death. Surviving are his son Gerald R and his wife Alicia (Gonzalez) Ellis, grandchildren Michael and Penny (Sharf) Ellis, Jolie A Ellis, Step granddaughter, Vanessa K Romero, niece Judy (Richard) Rhodes and several other relatives and friends. At His request , no service will be held. Cremation has taken place. The family would like to thank the staff at White Oaks and Hospice Care of SW Mich. Service was provided by Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society Schoolcraft www.avinkcremation.com