Darrel L. Ellis

Darrel L. Ellis, age 88, of Lancaster, WI died on Monday morning August 7, 2023, at the Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster. He was born on December 11, 1934, the son of Oswald and Gertrude (Cummins) Ellis. Darrel was united in marriage to Bernice Pickel on June 13, 1964, at the United Methodist Church in Lancaster.

Darrel delivered papers as a teen and later plowed snow for the Little Grant Township in his younger years. He graduated from Lancaster High School and became a heavy equipment tester for John Deere Cooperation in Dubuque. He was a dedicated employee until his retirement after 30 years. He also served in the Navy Reserves for eight years.

Darrel enjoyed scuba diving and made many fishing and hunting trips to Canada. He also loved hunting around home for raccoons, rabbits, and squirrels. For the last 23 years, he and Bernice wintered in Florida. This simple man enjoyed his simple life and dedicated his love to his beloved wife and family.

Darrel is survived by his wife of 59 years Bernice, son DaVon Ellis, three grandchildren: Elizabeth, William, and Danielle, six great grandchildren: Noel, Xander, Dwight, Emma, Mayjo, and Willow, sister Joan Gates, brother Larry (Marilyn) Ellis as well as many nieces and nephews.

Darrel was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister Marlene Ellis, sisters-in-law: Darlene Ellis and Gloria Pickel, brothers-in-law: James Gates and John Pickel, and niece Jennifer Walter.