James Joseph Ellert of St. Clair, MO, formerly Carpinteria, CA, departed this life at his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on December 25, 2013, having reached the age of ninety-two years, nine months and seven days. James was born in Ashley , IN, on March 18 , 1921 , son of Joseph Herman Ellert and Clara Cecilia Ellert nee Wetoskey. On November 18, 1945, he was united in marriage to Doreen Wilson and three children came to bless this union.
James is survived by his wife, Doreen Ellert of St. Clair, MO; by his children, Laura Ellert and her friend, Richard Austin, of Sumner, WA, Maureen Bartram and husband, Bruce, of St. Clair and Jim Ellert and wife, Erlene, of St. Clair; by two brothers, Carl Ellert of Auburn, IN and Ben Ellert and wife, Beverly, of Auburn, IN; by four sisters, Bertha Cox of Elkhart, IN, Rita Roark and husband, Norman, of Auburn, IN, Theresa Stanley of Goleta, CA and Barbara Bounds of Goleta, CA; by her sister-in-law, Velma Ellert of Ashley, IN; by nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Clara Ellert; by four brothers, Clayton Ellert, Leonard Ellert, Jerome Ellert and infant, Edward Ellert; and by two sisters, Irene Ellert and Marie Blomeke.
James was a Christian and member of St. Clare Catholic Church in St.
Clair, MO. He was proud to have served his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, entering on July 24, 1942 and receiving his discharge on October 20, 1945. During his working career James was employed as an electrician by various contractors. He was a proud, fifty-five year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #413 of Santa Barbara County , CA. James was also a member of the American Legion Post #347 of St. Clair, as well as a member of Knights of Columbus, Bishop Leo John Steck Council #4667 of St. Clair. When living in Carpinteria, CA he rekindled his interest in farming, primarily livestock farming, and was a local leader of the 4H Club for eleven years. He loved to do woodworking, go fishing and was especially proud of his restored Model A Ford. What meant most to him was time spent with his family. The love they shared and many precious memories they created will forever live in their hearts.
Visitation was held from 2:00 to 6:00 PM on Saturday, December 28, 2013 at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO with rosary services at 5:30 PM.
A private committal will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to Honor Flight, Inc.
