Gary E. Ellis

A graveside service celebrating the life of Gary E. Ellis, age 74, of Granville, will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, August 19, 2024, at Maple Grove Cemetery, 350 East Maple Street, Granville. Military honors will be observed by the Licking County Veterans Alliance. Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, August 18, at McPeek Hoekstra Hoskinson Funeral Home, 133 South Prospect Street, Granville.

Gary E. Ellis, born on June 7, 1950, grew up in Granville, Ohio, and passed away on August 11, 2024. Gary was a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend, known for his ability to bring joy and warmth to those around him. Gary was a 1968 graduate of Granville High School and a proud Marine who served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. A distinguished graduate of The Ohio State University as both an undergrad and the College of Law, Gary made a significant impact as a respected attorney in Newark, Ohio, where he established his own successful law practice.

Known for his gregarious nature and jovial spirit, Gary was a man of sharp intellect and profound kindness. He enjoyed classic rock music, history, family trips to Florida, and lounging by the pool. He had a remarkable talent for sharing humorous stories about his experiences and loved ones, creating cherished memories, and bringing laughter to all who knew him. His passion for his family, combined with his love for baseball and Ohio State football, defined his rich and fulfilling life. Gary made significant contributions to his community through coaching Little League baseball, actively participating in the Ohio State Bar Association, and serving as a judge pro tem for the Newark court system.

Gary is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Laura Ellis, whom he married on June 27, 1980, and whose enduring love was a cornerstone in his life; daughter, Kathy (Jason) Mattice; son, Paul (Naoko) Ellis; grandchildren, Kennedy Mattice, Parker Mattice, Taylor Mattice, Lio Ellis, and Nina Ellis; cousins, Rod (Sharlet) Ellis and Cheryl (Bill) Rose; mother-in-law, Theresa Krempel; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Anne (Rick) Hurps, Anita (John) Taulbee, Larry (Barb) Krempel, Dick (Kim) Krempel, Mary Jane (Mike) Parks, Joe (Robin) Krempel, Lou (Martha) Krempel, and Dave (Toni) Krempel; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Chester and Margaret L. (Schneider) Ellis, he was preceded in death by his beloved son, Ben Ellis.

His love for family was evident in every aspect of his life.

In honor of Gary’s memory, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

McPeek Hoekstra Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for Gary and his family.