Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
David Ellis Obituary
Feb. 20, 1949 - July 18, 2021
Resident of San Jose, CA
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of David John Ellis at the age of 72. It is with deep joy we celebrate his life, and everything for which he fought so hard. When Dave decided he loved something, he would go to great lengths to fight for it. Whether it was asking for his wife Peggy's hand in marriage at age 23, playing college football at SJSU, coaching the Gavlin football team to a national championship, developing the adaptive PE program for disabled students, broadcasting for SJSU football, or counseling troubled youth at the boys ranch. When Dave was in, he was in.
If you had asked him what his greatest accomplishment was he would say it was his children, John (Heather), Chris, and Katie. His family was his everything. We think it was how he battled a brain tumor, only to come back and live a bonus 23 years, celebrate 48 years of marriage, and meet his five beautiful grandchildren. After his heroic fight for his family and his life, he is at peace.
Please join us in Celebrating Dave at Santa Teresa Catholic Church on Saturday, July 31 at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations to National Brain Tumor Society.
View the online memorial for David John Ellis
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Ellis
Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
Bill Brown
February 15, 2023
As I continue to reflect on my life, and the time I spent with Dave, what comes to mind is when we hiked into the Grand Canyon/Havasu Canyon. What a rich memory as we (Brodie, also ) went down into the canyon, passing through the Havasupai Indian Reservation, and coming to the ridge of the Canyon. Dave was the one who directed this journey, and I am extremely thankful.
William (Billy) M. Brown, Ph.D.
February 14, 2023
Dave was a joy in my life....his memory will always bring a smile to my face. He was my college roommate, and my quarterback when I was a Center at SJSU football 1971!
Ileana Maciel
August 20, 2021
He was a wonderful teacher he was always there for me when I had my liver issues and other stuff I will miss. Him
Greg Zazueta
August 7, 2021
RIP coach!
Renzulli Family
July 31, 2021
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Bill Brown
July 30, 2021
My prayers go out to Peggy and Ellis family. "Billy" Brown, San Jose State Football player with Dave, and College roommate.
Mary Lou Filice
July 30, 2021
With heartfelt sympathy, so sorry for your loss. Dave was a good football player. Enjoyed watching him play at San Jose State.
Carmen Silva Martinez
July 29, 2021
So very sorry for your loss...my condolences to you and your family.
Tim and Kathy Glaze
July 29, 2021
Sorry we couldn't make it to his memorial. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. RIP Dave.
JoAnn Piazza Baker
July 28, 2021
Peggy I am so sorry for you and your family´s loss
I will never forget Dave
JoAnn Piazza baker
Patti & Chad Roseboom
July 28, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will cherish your friendship and memories we have made. We will love you and miss you always.
Lorraine Clements
July 27, 2021
Hugs to you Peggy and your family
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in David Ellis's name
Memorial Events
for David Ellis
How to support David's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor David Ellis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
