James “Mike” Ellis, 80, of Bridgewater, died unexpectedly Thursday, January 8, 2015, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston.
Mike entered the world early on August 28, 1934, weighing only 2 & 1/2 pounds. Mike was the 5th child born to Benjamin and Laura Ellis. He was educated in Bridgewater.
Mike had many interesting careers in his life. Mike worked for the Town of Bridgewater, Forestry Department and was elected as Tree Warden. He enjoyed working on the Common of Bridgewater as well as around town for the Ellis family landscaping business.
In the morning hours, he enjoyed caring for his horse Grandy and sharing a cup of tea with his wife, Barbara. They would be celebrating 60 years of marriage in June. His favorite times were spent caring for his farm and growing produce to share with friends and family. He enjoyed taking buggy rides, collecting wagons, enjoyed the warmth of his wood stove. He was excited to see the Red Sox beat an 80 year old curse. Most of all, Mike loved spending time with his family and friends.
Mike was beloved husband Barbara (Groves) Ellis, he is beloved father of Michael Ellis and daughter-in-law Cindy Ellis of Raynham, MA and Ricky Ellis and daughter-in-law Veronica Ellis of Bridgewater, MA. He is grandfather of Jennifer, Candice, Christopher, Andrew, and Ethan Ellis. He is also great-grandfather to Neveah Ellis and Allison Horne. “Uncle Mike” will be missed by many nieces and nephews especially Susan Burns of Raynham, who took the time and care to bring Barbara up to visit him during his stay at the hospital.
Mike is also survived by brothers Calvin Ellis and his wife Beverly Ellis of Raynham, MA, Lenny Ellis and his wife, Carol Ellis of New Vineyard, ME and Wayne Ellis and his companion, Roberta Vernaglia of Brockton, MA. Predeceased by sister Etta (Ellis) Whynot and brothers Benjamin F. Ellis and John R. Ellis.
A memorial service will be held on February 8th at the First Congregational Church at 2p.m. following a Celebration of Life buffet at Tilbe Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name may be made to the First Congregational