William J. "Gus" Ellis

Gus was a really nice person. We played tennis with him and always enjoyed visiting with him. He and I won a wooden racquet tennis tournament together and it was a lot of fun. We are sorry to hear of his death.

I first met Gus, (I knew him as "Don"), in the early 1980's. He moved in across the street from me on Northeast Hancock and ended up living in the same building as we were living in. A lovely 1920's 4-plex with beautiful architectural details. Don appreciated beauty. He was a true "renaissance man." There was so much more to him than sports. We looked forward to having coffee with him and discussing books(he was a voracious reader), music( we have many jazz tapes), politics, art, etc. We...

To my friend where we shared many a cups of Starbucks and chatted endlessly about sports (he would help me pick college football matchups when entering football pools), army memories, cars and his jazz collections (of which I have many). As I sit in one of his office chairs (he made me a deal I couldn't refuse), I'll reflect on our times together and wish him safe travels as he sails off into forever sunsets. Gods speed, buddy.

A great man who touched many lives. He will be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Gus.

I first met Gus when he started working with our staff in the 80's at the Portland Tennis Center. He was great conducting tennis activities with adults and children alike. We formed a friendship which lasted well past our time at PTC. He was outgoing, creative and reliable. The photos portray Gus the way I will always remember him. He will be missed.

Those of us who knew and worked with Gus in the Freightliner Sales Administration department found a jovial and good friend in Gus. He was an interesting guy with his tennis skills and mountain cabin home that he restored. We all thought of him as one of the "good guys". I know that he will be missed by many.

Gus and I played major league softball together for 3 or 4 years and he was my favorite teammate. He also kept my dog supplied with old tennis balls during the time I lived at the beach. He was a terrific friend. We first crossed paths when our teams played against each other in 1951, so you can see how long our association went on. I am sorry for your loss and want you to know that he will not be forgotten. Gary

Gus was an outstanding tennis instructor; always positive, always supportive. All of us in the tennis community have wonderful memories of Gus.

My memories of Gus will always be of his love for good music! Keep the music playing "Gus".