James Ernest Ellis

James Ernest Ellis passed away peacefully with his family by his side on April 16, 2009. He joins his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara Ann Ellis, who went on to be with Jesus seven years ago. Jim is survived and will be missed by his brother Robert (Tekla) Ellis of Mason Ohio, a sister Eva Martin of Ft. Pierce Florida, cousin Ron Bowers of Waterloo Iowa, along with two sons, Andrew (Marsha) Kavcsak and Douglas (Melissa) Ellis, and one daughter, Holly (Allen) Thomas. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. James was born April 24, 1929 in Monongah, WV. He proudly served his country with honor for 20 years from September 1950 to September 1970 in the United States Air Force, where he spent the majority of his time stationed at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. While there, he worked with the Air Force Orientation Group (AFOG). The rest of his military career included assignments to England, Germany, and a one-year stint in Vietnam. During his time with the Orientation Group, he traveled throughout the United States and the world. Transporting static displays of various missiles and other aircraft on oversize trucks he received several safe driver awards over the years as he proudly showcased the Air Force at various fairs, college campuses, and special international events, including the World's Fair in New York City and the 50th Annual International Trade Fair in Yugoslavia. Following his retirement from the Air Force he continued his excellent professional driving career with IML Freight for 11 years. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 from 2-4 PM with a memorial service to follow at Christian Life Center, 3489 Little York Rd., Dayton, OH 45414. If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 1373 Grandview Ave., Suite 200, Columbus, OH 43212. Arrangements in care of Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel.