De Wayne Nicholas Gregory Ellis

My amazing husband, De Wayne Ellis, age 71, formerly a long-time resident of Portage, IN, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025. De Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert D., and Marjorie M. Ellis. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Robin, his son Jeffrey D. Ellis and daughter Samantha L. Winsor (Nathan), his sister Dale Lynn Owens (Thomas), Crissy Owens, Tiffany Newberry (Darren), Nieces, and Brian Owens (Amanda) Nephew, along with 3 great-nieces and 2 great- nephews. He was the devoted grandfather of Benjamin D. (Jazmin) and Bryson R. Ellis, Brentt M., Blake M., and Brayden M. Winsor. De Wayne was born in Gary, IN, on April 12, 1953. He married Robin on May 10, 1980, and together proudly raised two children. De Wayne was a devout Catholic, enjoyed attending Mass, and spending time decorating the church for all holidays. He was a dependable, thorough, and talented man. During his lifetime, he was employed by the Hoosier Lottery, Equitable Life Insurance, M. A. Dilts & Associates, Inc., and lastly as the Director of Transportation with the Portage Township Schools. It was a position that kept him busy but also one that he thoroughly enjoyed. De Wayne retired from Portage Township Schools 5 years ago and re-located to Georgia (and warmer weather). He loved Oldies, Country, and Christian music, his dogs, working on his family’s Genealogy, and gardening. De Wayne was known for his kindness, calm demeanor, and was Robin’s definition of an ideal husband. He (“Poppie”) was a true inspiration to his 5 grandsons; and we are all honored and blessed to have shared in his remarkable life journey and legacy. Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN. Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. directly after visitation. Rev. Kevin McCarthy and Deacon Dennis Guernsey, officiating. The burial will be private (at a later date), and will take place, at McCool Cemetery, 2700 McCool Road, Portage, IN. De Wayne’s family takes comfort in knowing that his deep faith and a life well-lived has brought him to eternal peace. The family is also deeply grateful to the kindhearted caregivers at the VNA Hospice in Valparaiso for providing comfort and care for him in his final days. In lieu of flowers please send donations to St. Agnes Adult Day Service Center, 1859 Harrison Blvd, Valparaiso, IN 46385.

De Wayne Nicholas Gregory Ellis

April 12, 1953 - February 27, 2025