Michael DeWane Ells

Birth date: Sep 24, 1942 Death date: Feb 4, 2024

In loving memory of Michael DeWane Ells - Big Rapids Michael DeWane Ells passed away February 4, 2024, in Big Rapids, MI surrounded by his family. Mike, and his identical twin brother, David, were born September 24, 1942, to Nad Read Obituary

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Khagendra Thapa

85w ago

in honor of Michael.

Dear Carol and family. It is deeply saddening to note that Michael Ells has passed away. To me Michael was a great friend and colleague. He was always very positive and encouraging and kind to students, colleagues and friends. I worked with him in several projects when I taught the environmental engineering course. The summer project was so practical and useful for the community.
I remember talking to him within the year. He still had the same sense of humor and his prolific laughter.
I guess we are here temporarily and will be gone sooner or later.

My heart felt condolences to Carol and other family members in this difficult time.

Khagendra Thapa Emeritus Professor, FSU

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Michael J Evanoff

86w ago

My enduring memory dates back from August of 2000 when our older son and I hiked the Wonderland Trail which circumnavigates Mt Rainier. We took a day off, got picked up by Mike and Carol, and spent the night at their A-frame in Packwood, Wa. While we were there, I kept noticing a backpack, an ice axe and some crampons in the corner. I was wondering what this middle-aged nerdy guy was doing with this hard core mountaineering stuff. As it turns out, Mike spent summers pooping in plastic bags and then depositing the contents on the mountain and then coming back to see what happened to it (Ref: https://www.slideshare.net/sustainablesummitsinitiative/michael-ells-surface-disposal). Apparently, he became pretty adept at holding the handles of a grocery store plastic bag up around his waist during the act. This led to quite a few fun conversations, especially in the presence of a 12 year-old boy.

Anonymous

86w ago

Sent a Beautiful in Blue to the Ells family.

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Ted Dohnal

87w ago

Professor Ells helped guide me from a struggling student to a successful career in public health food safety. We all need a mentor at times and he was there for so many. I still have fond memories of him opening is home for student "Road Kill" potlucks, and presentations of his research on Mt Rainier. He will be missed by all who had the chance to met him.

Chuck Drake

87w ago

Carol, Jeff, Aaron, and Kim,
The Ferris State University Emeriti Association sends it condolences for your loss of Mike. Always a friendly face, Mike was a big contributor to our university.
For the FSUEA, Chuck Drake

Todd Jones

87w ago

Mike was my scout master and boy was he a good one. Our times and exploits at Philmont are fond memories that will never be forgotten. A truly remarkable man with the most incredible sense of humor.I Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Ells family. Rest in peace Mike.

Patrick & Ann Mcnabb

87w ago

Dear Carol and the entire Ells family,
We read Mike’s obituary and it was a beautiful, loving and touching tribute to his life. We learned many things about his and Carol’s life that we did not know. He will be missed by his many family members and friends. He & Carol touched many lives in many meaningful ways and Mike will live on in the memories of those who had the good fortune to come in contact with him. The Big Rapids neighborhood gatherings will not be the same without his presence and good humor. On a personal note, we always were very appreciative of his generous sharing of your bountiful rhubarb crop. We will miss him greatly!

With fond memories,
Pat & Ann McNabb

Jean Walling

87w ago

Dear Carol and family,
Phil and I are deeply sorry for your loss. Mike was such a great guy!
I hope you and your family are able to gather together and share your memories and support each other at this sad time.
Best to you, Jean Walling

Mark

87w ago

One of the best people ever! That laugh, that sense of humor and that love for everyone that came across his path. We are all better people for knowing Mike and being loved by Mike. I know that I will take his light and shine it as long as I live. Love you all! So sorry! He will be dearly missed! What an amazing life!

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