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Ellsworth A. Rolfs
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Ellsworth Rolfs Obituary
Ellsworth (Ells) August Rolfs, age 90, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025. Born February 18, 1935, in Coldwater, Michigan, to Ellsworth and Lucille Rolfs (both deceased). Ells is survived by his sister Judie and preceded in death by his sister Linda.
Ells was preceded in death by his first wife, Esther, and survived by their children Joy (Scott), Kevin (Betty), Eric, Dina (Steven), Shawn (Rose), Ellice (Greg), and Erinn (Joe). Ells is survived by his second wife, Ildy, and their son Tim; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Ells will be remembered for his curiosity, kindness, and devotion to family and service.
Ells graduated from Hope College (Physics and Math degrees), launching a distinguished career in national defense. He began at White Sands Missile Range in 1957 and went on to serve at Holloman and Kirtland Air Force Bases. Ells played key roles in nuclear weapons development and served as Lead Project Officer for the B61 and B83 programs. He was known for his integrity, leadership, and mentorship.
Ells was a passionate caver, recognized as a Fellow and Honorary Member of the National Speleological Society (NSS) for his exploration and mapping of caves in the Southwest. A lifelong learner and adventurer, Ells was a dedicated Toastmaster, serving in many leadership roles and mentoring countless members.
Ells was deeply involved in his community, serving as a Red Cross instructor, Hunter and Gun Safety instructor, church board member, Boy Scouts supporter, and community theater volunteer. He and Esther were instrumental in founding the Otero County Association for Retarded Citizens, advocating for special needs children, and helping to establish vital programs in New Mexico.
A celebration of life will be announced by the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to UNMH Miracle Network Fund for Treadmill Training in Children with Cerebral Palsy (bit.ly/3TrkgvJ) or to the National Speleological Society NM
(http://bit.ly/4lg8MqZ) in memory of Ellsworth Rolfs.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ellsworth Rolfs
3 Entries
Marcia E Hahn
July 20, 2025
Mary Ann, Geoffrey and I each enjoyed Ells' wonderful company and cared for him very much. We shared many interests with him and Ildy and had great times with Tim. Geoffrey and I send my most sincere condolences to you Ildy and Tim, Much Love, Marcia
Pat Haskins
July 20, 2025
Condolences to the entire family
John Ward, Lt Col, USAF (Ret)
July 20, 2025
Ildy
So very sorry to hear of Ells passing. He will be dearly missed. He was a very good friend and mentor to me. Thanks to his mentorship I became the best Nuclear Research Officer I could be. I will always remember the New Mexico hunts with Ells and Brian. Also, the many get togethers with you and Brian's family. Lots of fun there. Now He, Susan and Linda are enjoying eternity with God. God Bless you and Tim.
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