Obituary of Joseph Lawrence Ellis

Joseph Lawrence Ellis was born April 14, 1947 in Tacoma, Washington; he passed away peacefully on December 8, 2017. His family moved to Portland, Oregon when he was six years old. Following graduation from Grant High School he enlisted in the Army and served tours of duty in Germany, Korea, Viet Nam, and the United States. He was proud to be part of the family tradition of military service to our country. Joe is remembered as a gentle and caring man who loved God, country, family, and animals. He was a quiet man with a generous spirit.

Joe was preceeded in death by his twin brother Bill, parents Mary Elizabeth and William Ellis, and step-mother Marian Neilson Ellis. He is survived by sisters Joanne McMorine and Judy Canfield; sister-in-law Suratchada Ellis; his step-siblings Shirley Grew, Liz Walker, Cathie McNeil, Leslie Grew, Ron Neilson, and Debbie Faurot; several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joe lived in Sherwood, Oregon for many years until moving to Vancouver, Washington to be closer to family.

A Celebration of Life will be held December 22, at 3:00 p.m., at VanChurch/Vancouver Church of Christ, Vancouver, Washington. His remains will be placed at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. Cascadia Cremation and Burial is in charge of arrangements.

Donations in his honor may be made to Disabled Veterans of America or PeaceHealth Hospice Southwest.