Gary Ellis, Dvm

Gary M. Ellis, DVM,  age  70, of Traverse City and formerly of Battle Creek, died on August 29, 2021, at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital.  He was born on March 2, 1951, in Allegan, Michigan, the son of Raymond and Esther (Clawson) Ellis.  Gary graduated in 1969 from Allegan High School and went on to receive his degree in veterinary medicine from Michigan State University in 1975.  After receiving his degree, Gary worked as a veterinarian at a dairy farm in Wisconsin, then became a partner at Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic where he practiced for 42 years.  He attended North Avenue Church of God and later First Wesleyan Church.  Gary enjoyed nature and was an avid outdoorsman.  He enjoyed fly fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking.  Gary loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  He was kind, gentle, generous, and loving to so many.  He was always available to lend a hand, to care for someone, and lived and loved well.  Gary was united in marriage on March 11, 2011, to Patricia (Bischel) Ellis, she survives.  Also surviving are their children; Shannon (Jason Prince) Ellis of Ann Arbor, Colleen (David) Hunter of East Leroy, Nathan (Myra) Opala of Battle Creek, Marysa Opala of Phoenix, AZ., sisters; Eileen Thompson of Wisconsin, Ruth (Cecil) Winterowd of North Carolina, brother; Philip Ellis of Traverse City, grandchildren; Drew and Ryleigh Hunter, Opal and Clover Prince, Max, Jackson, and Natalie Opala.  A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m., on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at North Ave Church of God, Pastor James Sparks officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity.  Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org