Jack J. Ellis

April 18, 1927 – December 10, 2024

Jack Jerome Ellis passed away peacefully at home in Chesterfield, Missouri, on December 10, 2024, at the age of 97. He was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments.

Born on April 18, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, Jack was the beloved son of the late Charles S. Ellis and Edna R. Ellis. He grew up in Evanston, Illinois, and attended the Chicago Latin School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Rose Polytechnic Institute (now Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology), where he later received an honorary Ph.D.

Jack was the devoted husband of 47 years to Dorothy "Dottie" Galloway Ellis and the cherished father of six children: Barbara Ellis; Jack "John" J. Ellis Jr. (Ellen Gomez); Dave Ellis (Pam Bluth); Joe Ellis; Jim Ellis (Olya); and Colleen Ellis Stock (Paul). He was a proud grandfather to Harvey, Carey, Greg, Michael, Joey, Nicole, Courtney, Liam, Audrey, Emery, Nikita, Maisie, and Calder, as well as a proud great-grandfather of three. Jack was also a dear brother to the predeceased Jim (Jan) Ellis, Suzanne Ellis Buist, Charles S. Ellis Jr. (Marion), and Quintin S. Ellis (Jean); a treasured brother-in-law, uncle, godfather, and friend to many.

Jack enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with Peabody Coal Company, where he met Dottie.  He also had a consulting business, J & I Engineering. Outside of work, he was a skilled craftsman who loved woodworking, weaving Nantucket baskets, and making furniture. He was always doing something.  A true "tinkerer," he delighted in helping neighbors and family members with their projects and was always ready to lend a hand at church alongside the late Fr. Thomas Graham.

Dedicated husband to Dottie who he loved unconditionally. In their 47 years, they loved entertaining guests and going out to dinner. They enjoyed sharing stories and pictures of their loving extended family.

Jack loved traveling with Dottie and Colleen to visit family across the country and enjoyed hiking or relaxing outdoor with a cocktail during their time in Arizona. Jack really appreciated anyone with a "good sense of humor" and his big laugh is unforgettable. A man of faith, he attended daily Mass with Dottie and found joy in entertaining guests and sharing meals with loved ones.

Jack's life was defined by his generosity of spirit and dedication to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.