Tuesday, October 07, 2008

Morris Ellis - Farewell after 100 Years


I had a post at the beginning of the year on famous people born in 1908. I could only confirm one who was still alive - Claude Levy Strauss. But there was a man here in Anchorage who was born September 9, 1908 who was at least famous in his family - with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.

Morris Ellis died Saturday October 4, 2008. Yesterday was his funeral. I'd only met him once or twice, but his son and daughter-in-law are people I feel very close to. At the funeral I learned about this family patriarch from his sons, and grandchildren.

1908. Four years after the Wright Brothers flew their plane at Kitty Hawk. Mr. Ellis worked for the US Post Office after leaving school in the 8th grade. Here's a picture of him with his Post Office delivery truck.



Later, he joined the navy and worked in Algeria - at a Naval Postal facility - during WW I. He moved his family from New York to Los Angeles after enjoying the weather in Algeria.

Eventually he came to Alaska about ten years ago with his wife at the invitation of his children and grandchildren.

A life ends. A rich, long life. Celebrated by a large and loving family.

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