Michael Edward Ellis, 62, of Blair, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 9, 2025.
Services will be held Monday, February 17, at 10:30 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Blair, followed by graveside services at Blair Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, February 16, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Campbell Aman Funeral Home.
Born October 10, 1962, in Wareham, Massachusetts, to U.S. Navy Captain Robert and Judith Ellis, Mike grew up in a military family, living in several states. He particularly cherished his time in Ford Island, Hawaii.
Mike began his conservation journey at the University of New Hampshire in 1980, studying Wildlife Management. In 1983, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a border patrol leader along the East German and Czechoslovakian borders while stationed in Bindlach, Germany. There, at a German-American Volksfest in 1985, he met his true love, Monika, whom he married in Wirsberg, Germany, in 1987.
After welcoming their daughter Loraine, the couple moved to the United States, where Mike completed his bachelor’s degree at Kansas State University. The family, which grew to include son Brandon, eventually settled in Blair after time in Minnesota, where Mike had worked at the Morris Wetland Management District.
Mike dedicated his career to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, serving at Boyer Chute and DeSoto Bend Refuge until his retirement in 2018. He was an active member of the Blair VFW and found joy in nature, metal detecting, and visiting family and friends in both Germany and the United States.
Known for his dedication, honesty, and humility, Mike took greatest pride in being a loving husband, father, and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Monika of Blair; daughter Loraine (Marc) Anderson of Omaha and grandson Maximilian; son Brandon (Hallie) of Omaha and granddaughter Ashley; mother Judith Ellis; sisters Janet Ellis, Jackie Ellis Taft (Butch), and Robbie Ellis Keenan (John); brother Christopher Ellis (Zekie); and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Memorial donations may be directed to the family. Arrangements by Campbell Aman Funeral Home, Blair (www.campbellaman.com).
