Richard "Rick" J. Ellis

September 7, 1966 ~ December 9, 2024

Richard “Rick” J. Ellis, 58, passed away December 9, 2024, at Memorial Hospital, South Bend. He will be dearly missed. His life will continue to bless others through his final act of service through organ donation.    

Rick was born in South Bend on September 7, 1966, to the late Robert Frances and Mary Alice (McFarland) Ellis.

After graduating from Riley High School, Rick went on to study Graphic Design at the Kendall School of Art and Design, graduating in 1989. He was employed for many years at Forest River, in Elkhart, IN.

Rick loved the outdoors- kayaking, camping, hiking, or just enjoying nature. He also loved photography, capturing the beauty of the many National Forests and parks he visited, and also in Colorado where he lived for several years. He had a witty, dry sense of humor and loved spending time with friends and family.  He enjoyed building models-- boats, planes, tanks, etc., and was a valued member of a local model club.  Rick was a loving son. His parents meant the world to him and he dedicated much of his time to care for them, and even many others at St. Paul’s Retirement Community.  Rick loved to drive-- The road less traveled was his style, taking the “back roads” just to get more time behind the wheel and to see the countryside.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mary Alice Ellis.

Rick leaves behind his siblings; Diane (Arnie) Elmerick and Ron Ellis, nieces and nephews, and extended family Darlene and Eldon Watts.

A celebration of life for Rick will be held at a later date.

Rick gave the gift of life to others through organ donation and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Indiana Donor Network can be made so others can look forward to those gifts as well.  Indiana Donor Network 3750 Guion Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46222.

Online condolences to the family may be sent via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

12/13/2024 djb

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/RichardRick-Ellis