Ellis Dean Whitesell
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A visitation for Ellis Dean Whitesell, 77, Eudora, will be held from 5-8 p.m., April 12, 2021 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary Chapel, Eudora, KS. Private family inurnment will be at Hesper Cemetery in Eudora at a later date. Ellis passed away at home, surrounded by family and friends on Thursday, April 8, 2021.
Ellis was born on April 28, 1943 in Ozark, AR. The son of Earl Eugene and Dessie (Campbell Whitesell.
He was a utility engineer for Delco Battery until he retired in 1999. After retirement, he and Frances spent several years as a camp host in South Fork Colorado. Ellis also enjoyed many years as a school bus driver in the area, ending his career in Eudora.
Ellis enjoyed spending time with his family, camping and traveling. He was a member of the Cedar Creek Campers (Good Sam’s) camping club. He also was a certified 4-H shooting sports instructor. He and Frances were members of the Kaw Valley Squares Square dance club and enjoyed square dancing with many clubs across Kansas.
He married Frances Crawshaw on August 20, 1964 in Olathe, KS. She survives of the home.
Other survivors include his two daughters, Dee Ann Howell (Darin), Tammy Gabriel (Phil), his son, Randy Whitesell (Kristi), eight grandchildren, Michael (Kendrea) Howell, Christohper Gabriel, Alicia Howell, Cheyenne Becker, Jon Lawrence, Dakota and Taylor Whitesell ; seven great grandchildren, Jaelyn and Madilynn Howell, Gwenevere Hefley, Morgan and Matthew Howell, Addison and Josie Becker and two sisters, Ella Thrasher and Lorraine Bird.
Memorial contributions may be made in Ellis’ name to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.
So sad for all the family. Cancer is an awful disease. I didn’t know Ellis well but he has fantastic kids, grandkids and great grandkids. Peace to all.
So sorry to hear this. Many memories of Ellis and my Dad working and laughing….
Very sorry to learn of Ellis’s passing, worked around and with Ellis at delco battery plant for close to 20 yrs.. Always enjoyed talking or being around. Thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time and by looking at posts on his FB page i know he will be Missed by his family and friends
Was so sorry to learn of Ellis’s death. Cancer is so awful. Just wanted to send my love and hugs to you all. Aunt Jane
We will miss a good friend and camping buddy, wish we had known him longer.
So sad to hear this! Praying for the family as they enjoy and share memories! God bless!!
Dennis & Connie Altic (Darin’s aunt and uncle)
We love you all deeply, I have so many happy memories of Ellis as a kid. Our trips to Colorado, Utah, N. and S. Dakota, Wyoming. Roaring Rivers and trips to Branson too. I will remember him eating onions like apples and his smile always.
The Lawrence Family
Thinking of all of you at this time. Prayers and much love! Dean & Brenda
My first year driving a school bus I was the sub for Ellis and I have to say one of the sweetest guys I’ve ever met. I loved how he didn’t care what anyone thought he told you like it was a real straight shooter. He treated all the kids on his route like gold. Fly high Ellis you will be truly missed. My condolences to his lovely wife and family!