Clyde John "Red" Ellis, 85, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 30, 2012, at Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation-Kenosha South. Born on September 6, 1926, in Kenosha, he was the son of the late Clyde S. and Lucille (Steinbach) Ellis. He enlisted in the United States Army on September 17, 1945, during World War II; he served until he was honorably discharged on April 21, 1947. On June 3, 1955, he married Jo Anne MacPherson in Kenosha. Prior to his retirement on September 6, 2011, Red was the owner/operator of Red’s Roller Rink, Inc. in Kenosha. He also was the owner/operator of Ellis Decorative Concrete. He later owned/operated Red’s New London Skate Center in New London, WI, and Interstate Yamaha in Bristol. He finally retired at the age of 85 from the Kenosha Private Police. Red was an avid roller skater, motor cyclist and community business man. He was named Roller Skating Rink Operator of the year. He was a supporter/fundraiser of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He contributed to food pantries of Kenosha through "Skate-a-thon". He enjoyed traveling, skiing and spending time with his family and friends. He loved the Green Bay Packers and NASCAR. He was also the proud sponsor of the Ellis Racing Team. He was a lifelong member of the American Motorcycle Association. He was a member of First Congregational Church and Kiwanis of Western Kenosha. Red is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Jo Anne of Kenosha; three children, Cathryn Elliott of Appleton, Curt (Joan) Ellis of Bristol, and Patricia Kreuser of Colorado Springs, CO; six grandchildren, Eric and Kelsi Ellis, Max Elliott, Abigail and Zachary Kreuser and Heather Ellis; and two brothers, Robert (Mary Jane) Ellis of LuConnor, WA, and James M. (Marie) Ellis of Kenosha. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, John Ellis. A memorial service will be held at Proko Funeral Home on Thursday, August 2nd, at 7:30 p.m. followed by full military honors. Interment will be private. Visitation will be held on Thursday at the funeral home from 4:30 p.m. until the time of the service.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Red’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Jim & Kris Pierce
August 3, 2012
Sorry to hear that Red passed away. I have many fond memories of the time we served as members of the Western Kenosha Kiwanis Club. My children now 40 and 43 enjoyed many Saturday morning skates at Red's Roller Rink. He was generious, hard working, and a friend to many. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kitty Vance
August 3, 2012
To my beautiful skating friend, Jo and family. I was so sorry to hear of the loss of such a wonderful person as Red. I have only known Jo and Red for about 7 years, but I will never forget their constant show of love and respect for each other. My deepest sympathies to the family and may God continue to watch over Jo now and until the time of they are reunited. Kitty Vance <3
Cheryl Friedl
August 2, 2012
With a heavy heart I say goodbye to a special man that was the most hard working, gentle, patient , loving husband to his beautiful bride, Jo Ellis. I was privileged to meet Red and Joe over 15 years ago and always loved to listen to their stories about their life events. Red will be missed by many because he touched a lot of hearts but as in life, his heart now is by Jo's side and will never leave her! I extend my most heartfelt sympathies out to the Ellis children. and especially to Jo, his forever beautiful bride, and a special prayer that she can find peace in his absence.
Annie Jensen
August 1, 2012
So sad to lose Red. I am one of thousands of kids who loved going to "Red's Roller Rink" back in the 70's! Thanks for giving all of us a place to hang out.
Tanya Koscinski
August 1, 2012
Ellis Family, I extend my deepest sympathies to you at this time. Not only do I have many fond memories of the roller rink, I have even more fond memories of working with Red at KMH. May you all find peace knowing he was a loved man and will be missed by many!
Sue Landaiche (Weyrauch)
July 31, 2012
I'm sorry to hear this news. I have many special memories of time spent with your family, and a long list of appreciations for my learning experiences with Red at the Rink and Chamber of Commerce. Red and Jo touched many lives with their sense of fun and generosity.