Vearl "Whitey" Ellis, 93, of Van Wert passed away at 8:05 AM Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Vancrest Healthcare.

He was born October 7, 1928 in Mercer County a son of Harry and Ada (Smith) Ellis, both of whom preceded him in death. On September 3, 1948 he married the love of his life, Lois L. Gallant who survives him. Surviving him are two daughters, Marcia (Tim) Moody and Linda (Ron) Wells.

Also surviving are grandchildren, T. Anson (Laura) Moody, Brendon (Kylee) Moody, Kevin Linton, Ashley (Jason Horstman) Wells, Angela (Jesse) Wiseman, three sisters, Betty (Doc-Deceased) Schroder, Dorothy (Dean-deceased) Nonamaker, Margie (Russ) Poor and eight great grandchildren.

Preceding him in death was a son, Vernon Ellis, on December 4, 1989. Vernons wife, Cheryl also survives. Two sisters and four brothers also preceded him in death.

In 1945 Vearl went to work for the New York Central Railroad and in 1946 he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served with the 8th Army in Japan and took jump training and was then assigned as a paratrooper/medic with the 11th Airborne Division.

Returning to civilian life he took employment for a few years with Reynolds Paper in Celina. He returned to Van Wert and was employed with the former Continental Can Company for 42 years. During this time in his life he also worked at Hilly Cordells Open Air Market.

Vearl loved raising roses, spending time with his family, feeding the birds and collecting scale models of old cars. In their earlier years the family went camping and traveled over most of the United States. Vearl was also a member of the Ohio City United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, May 20, 2022 at Brickner Funeral Home. Friends and relatives will be received on Thursday May 19, 2022 at the funeral Home from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM and on Friday an hour prior to services.

Burial in Scott Cemetery will follow the funeral service.

Memorials are to the Donors Choice.

Condolences may be left on our website: www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to: bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.