William Rick Ellis, 80, of Wanamingo, passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at the Mayo Clinic Hospital, Methodist Campus in Rochester. He was born in Yauco, Puerto Rico on May 18, 1943, to William and Luz (Ramirez) Ellis. He graduated from high school in Crescent City, FL in 1962. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division and was stationed in Vietnam from 1965-1967. There he received the Vietnamese Service Medal, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Rifle Badge M-14 Marksman commendation and the Good Conduct Medal. He then re-enlisted in the United States Army and served until 1976. He then re-enlisted in the United States Air Force National Guard, retiring in 1992. He then relocated to Wanamingo where he had many friends. He enjoyed old movies, researching the Doolittle Raid, playing flight simulator games, and spending time with his friends. He was a member of the VFW.
He is survived by one daughter, Julie (Kent) Breu and two grandchildren, Mitchell and Ainsley Breu. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A celebration of life will take place at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, February 16, 2024, at the New Life Church of Wanamingo. Arrangements made by the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Larson Chapel in Zumbrota.
