Robert John “Bob” Ellis, a resident of Dresden, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at Chatham-Kent Hospice at the age of 80.
Born in Chatham, the son of the late George and Evelyn (Turrell). Beloved husband of 58 years to Glenda (Parney). Loving dad of Rob & Lynn, Gregg & Donna, Jenn and Jeff & Angie. Proud grandpa of Ryan, Nathan, Tyler, Josh, Ben, Andrew and Connor. Dear brother and brother-in-law of the late George “Junior” & late Kay, Don & late Brenda, Rick and Mary & Bruce Grainger. Missed by many nieces and nephews.
For 48 years, Bob proudly owned and operated Ellis Motors, eventually working alongside his three sons and later grandson. His honesty, dedication, and personal touch built lasting relationships and reflected his deep commitment to both his customers and his community.Cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held with interment in Dresden Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. If desired, donations may be made to Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or Royal Canadian Legion Br. 113, Dresden. Online donations and condolences may be left at www.badderfuneralhome.com
Let me tell you a story about the richest man I know. He had simple beginnings, but learned the importance of love, honesty, optimism, good competition and hard work. He married his high school sweetheart and they were constant companions for 65 years. He lived his whole life in Dresden just mere blocks from his parents and 3 brothers, with whom he often enjoyed laughs, beverages and fishing. He had lifelong friends whose adventures included frequent get-togethers, travel, and hanging out at daily coffee. He raised his 4 children to work hard, help out, and take care of each other. He started at the bottom of the local car dealership and worked his way to the top. It provided him with a comfortable life, and though it grew to employ and service many friends, its greatest gift was working side-by-side with his sons and grandson. He played an active role in the raising of his 7 grandsons and lived to know the men they became. He cherished family functions, where he would catch up with nephews, nieces and their families. He played, coached, and sponsored local sports and passed his love of them onto his children and grandchildren. He liked socializing, so his door was always open and the beer fridge stocked. He was healthy and fit, which helped him beat the odds by extending the ending of his story for two great years. But even Superman has his kryptonite. So although we are devastated by the void his departure brings, today we are grateful to celebrate dad and the remarkably rich life he lived.
