Sidney Lee Ellis

Published 7:45 am Tuesday, August 7, 2018

October 22, 1934 – July 25, 2018

Sidney Lee Ellis of La Pine, OR, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on the evening of July 25, 2018.

The eldest of two sons, Sid was born on October 22, 1934, in Vancouver, WA, to parents James Oliver Ellis and Vesta Irene Mefford. As a young adult Sid moved to Maywood, CA, where he met his future wife, Darlene Diana Brothers. The two were married on April 8, 1955, and moved to Bell Gardens, CA, shortly thereafter. Darlene spent this time being a devoted wife, homemaker, and mother to their five children: Valerie, Melanie, Kathy, Patrick, and Bonnie.

After completing high school, Sid worked as a mechanic, a machinist, and a finish carpenter. Later in his career, he joined the Ventura County Fire Department and quickly rose to the rank of Fire Captain, serving the people of several communities. Sid retired in September of 1975 from a service connected injury he received while stationed in Ojai, CA.

Sid was known for his fondness of the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and loved camping and flying. He was adored by friends and family alike for his unwavering determination, devotion to his family, and his wit and intelligence. Sid’s analytical approach to problem solving was especially appreciated- it seemed he could fix almost anything! He was an amazing husband and loyal friend, unyielding in his attention to his children, and distinguished himself as a role model to all. He was affectionately called “Grandpa Ellis” by his grandchildren and “Grandpa Great” by his great-grandchildren.

Sid enjoyed his association with the Masonic Fraternity. He was a life member of Bend Lodge No. 139 Bend; member of Channel Islands Lodge No. 214 Ventura, CA; member of Scottish Rite of Freemasonry 32° Roseburg, OR; and a member of Redmond Chapter No. 109 O.E.S. (Order of the Eastern Star).

Sid was preceded in death by his parents, James Oliver Ellis and Vesta Irene Mefford, and two of his daughters, Valerie June Ellis York and Kathy Renee Ellis Talbott. Sid is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Darlene Ellis; three of his five children, Melanie Waters, Patrick Ellis, Bonnie Ellis Reed, and their spouses; thirteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and his brother, Larry Ellis of Clackamas, OR.

Private services were held with immediate family members. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that any donations be sent to Partners In Care: www.partnersbend.org or (541) 382-5882.

The Ellis family would like to give a special acknowledgment and warmest thanks to the loving and compassionate care given to Sid by the caregivers of Home Instead in Bend.

Baird Memorial Chapel is honored to serve Mr. Ellis’ family. Please visit our website www.bairdfh.com to share condolences and sign our online guest book.