William Robert Ellis

William Robert Ellis, 93, of St. Joseph, MI passed away at Caretel Inns on Wednesday, February 1, 2017. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI. William was born on November 7, 1923 in Portageville, MO to the late Charles and Linnie (Burch) Ellis. He served his country while in the U.S. Army during WWII. William was part of the invasion on D Day in Normandy, France. He also received the Purple Heart for his heroism during the war. On May 27, 1942 he married Dorothy Kellick; she preceded him in death on March 4, 2016. When William came home from the war his GI Bill and his musical talents took him to the Chicago Music Conservatory where he studied music. William loved playing his guitar; he had a lifelong interest in the stock market and was an avid investor; was a fabulous pool player; but most of all he loved his family, especially his grand and great grandchildren. William also owned and operated several establishments – Club Villa in Benton Heights during the mid 1960’s, Red Arrow Tap in Benton Heights during the mid 1970’s, and the Orchard Lounge in Benton Harbor during the mid 1980’s. William is survived by his two daughters – Charlotte Davenport and Donna (David) Kirby both of St. Joseph, MI; three grandchildren – Christopher (Kristina) Lewis, Jennifer (Tim) Knapp and Richard (Christina) Knox; six great grandchildren; and a sister – Ruby Chism of Waco, TX. He is also preceded in death by several siblings. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11, 11:30am, at Starks & Menchinger Funeral Home in St. Joseph. Visitation is on Friday at the funeral home from 5:00-7:00pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice At Home. Friends wishing to leave the family a message of condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com