Edwin "Dick" R. Ellison

Our loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away unexpectedly Friday, August 8, 2025 at the age of 90 years. He was born June 25, 1935 in Bay County where he resided all of his life. On June 30, 1956 he married his seventh-grade sweetheart Joyce Rosekrans, who proceeded him. Dick was a woodworking Craftsman. He started his apprenticeship at Kawkawlin Church furniture in his teens and retired from Delta College utilizing his skillset…where he also taught woodworking classes.

Dick’s dedication to the Armed Services was a devotion that culminated to the rank of Command Sargent Major with 41 years of service. He was an inspiration to others for his service…including his grandsons. After his retirement, he enjoyed traveling with Joyce, spending time at his cabin in Grayling, which he built with plans in his head and logs we all hand scraped.

He was passionate about his Geo Cashing and taking care of his plants and flowers in his yard. He enjoyed spending time with his family and continued making his woodworking treasures and heirlooms right to the end. His passion for Lighthouses also lead him around the state and country to check them off his list. This activity also lead him to be involved in the Saginaw River Lighthouse restoration committee.

We are left to cherish his memories along with his children; Cheryl and (Steve) Witzke and Carol and (Dan) Michalski, Rich and (Robin) Ellison, Ray and (Patty) Ellison, and Grace (Jim) Bollman. His grandchildren; Michael and (Christina) Witzke, Kelly and (Justin) Gallihugh, Jason and (Bonnie) Michalski, Nathan (Morgan) Milkowski, Trevor and (Olivia) Ellison, Greg Ellison, Melanie and (Mark) Rhine, Jacob Ellison, Kyle Ellison and Katie Ellison. His great grandchildren; Gage, Alyson, Carter, Ryland, Lily, Piper, Conner, Hailey, Serenity, Jackson, Adalynn, Colton, Gracin, Ellison Ruby, Saoirse, and Lena. He also leaves behind his close companion and dear friend, Aileen Kushon. He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce and parents; Edwin and Ruth Ellison and one son-in-law; Jim Milkowski.

We will miss you with all our hearts…we love you beyond measure.

The family invites all to gather for visitation at the Gephart Funeral Home, Inc on Thursday August 14, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. until the time of the Celebration of His Life service at 6:00 p.m. Officiating will be his son Rich Ellison. At the request of Dick, cremation has taken place and private Interment will take place in Great Lakes National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wishes of the Family.