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Mark Ellis Obituary

ELLIS, Mark B., 62, of Mechanicsville, Va., died November 10, 2008. Formerly of Pennsylvania, he was a son of the late Wayne P. Ellis Jr. and Eunice Lucille (Miller) Ellis. Surviving are his wife, Evelyn I. (Prentice) Ellis; a brother, Wayne Phillip Ellis III of Melrose, Mass.; and a nephew, Wayne Phillip Ellis IV of Vienna, Va. Viewing Friday, November 14, between 10 and 11 a.m. in Huff & Lakjer Funeral Home, 701 Derstine Ave., Lansdale, Pa., followed by graveside service in the Churchyard of The Washington Memorial Chapel, Valley Forge, Pa. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to Corsa CPF, P.O. Box 607, Lemont, Ill. 60439.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Nov. 13, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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Robert Frias

November 7, 2020

I always enjoyed Mark's energy and character. He was first my brothers friend but we became friends quickly. Reast In Peace my brother.

Dick McPherson,Knoxville Area Corvair Club

January 8, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Roger Sellers

January 2, 2009

I was at the 1976 CORSA National Convention in Philadelphia. At the time, I was still in college. I did not know Mark Ellis then, but was impressed with the car show that I believe was in Valley Forge. I saw my first turbo Corvair and was impressed with the experimental Monza GT and the Fitch Phoenix. Having been working with Corvairs for the past 4 years and doing a few restorations, I was impressed to see so many cars all with quite a following. I had heard the name Mark Ellis, but had not met the person. All together I walked away with a good feeling that so many people were still interested in a car I found quite unique and appealing. A few years passed, but I never forgot the people I met and the cars. I graduated college and was on my second job at a semiconductor company called Solid State Scientific in Montgomeryville, Pa. I believe the year was somewhere between 1978 and 1982. One day while at work, I ran into a woman who worked in the clean room in the process development line. At some point in the conversation, the topic of Corvairs came up and I was surprised that she knew so much about them. Her name was Eve Ellis. We became friends and discussed Corvairs quite a bit as I was in the process of restoring my 1968 Corvair convertible. It was then I discovered her husband was Mark Ellis. The name I had heard so much about at the 1976 National Convention. Mark was a good source for Corvair information and even gave me a few parts which are still in my '68 Corvair convertible today. He and Eve had also given me an original sales brochure and other year specific information that I still have. At the time, Mark had his burgundy, 1969 Fitch Sprint that Eve drove to work one day for me to look over. It was a beautiful car that I have pictures of while at the Das Awk Fest car show in Macungie. Also a shot of Mark, Eve and the '69 Sprint. It all seems so long ago, yet, just like yesterday. I've seen Mark's name on and off in the CORSA Communique for years. I was greatly saddened to hear of his passing. To all who knew him, he left behind a great legacy. We will all miss him very much.

david robertson

December 27, 2008

I was priviledged to have known Mark for the past ten years. Though he was nineteen years my senior, we shared a passion for cars, especially our beloved Corvairs. Thanks to Mark I was able go places and meet people I never would've on my own. He was always enjoyable to be around and calmly tolerated my grouchiness when things went awry. He was a master navigator who always got us to our destination, despite my terrible sense of direction. Whether we were on one of our epic trips to Detroit, 'roaching' parts from some hulk in the junkyard, or spending countless hours in his garage, they are times I will always remember and treasure. Farewell, my great friend.

Peter Uliciansky #5876

December 4, 2008

I owe everything I know about my '69 Corvair to Mark! He truly made me enjoy the hobby. I will miss him. His legacy will live on!

Caroline Cloutier

December 2, 2008

My best to Mark's family. He didn't know me at all, but he was very helpful when I asked him some '69 Corvair questions. I was saddened to hear of his passing but so appreciative to have known him, even a little.

Mike Lynch

November 27, 2008

One of the benefits of attending the Inter-National conventions is meeting new friends. Mark was just such a friend, and I always enjoyed talking with him at the conventions. As with most '69 owners we had a lot in common with our cars.

Mark will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on. Thank you, Mark, it was great to know you.

Bill Hershkowitz

November 26, 2008

Mark accomplished so much...he was always generous and willing to lend a hand to fellow enthusiasts...he will be sorely missed.
My deepest sympathies to Eve and the Ellis family...Bill Hershkowitz #5056 Monza Coupe

Charles Doerge

November 24, 2008

To Eve & family, my deepest condolences. I met and knew Mark at my beginnings in CORSA back in the early 70's. We kept in touch sporatically through the years and I still have my copy of the 1969 guide that he signed for me. He helped me with info for my 1969 coupe and helped immeasurably with info on the 1969 Goodyear Yenko Stinger. I admired his attention to detail and willingness to always assist anyone in their quest for information. He will be sorely missed in the "Corvair Community". Mark, may you find the creator himself driving #6000 around in heaven.... Charlie "Bud" Doerge

Bryan Blackwell

November 23, 2008

Like many others, I only met Mark briefly, but his name was so well known to me and I'll miss his many contributions to the Corvair hobby we shared. My condolences to Eve and all of the Ellis family.

John Wingle

November 22, 2008

I never got the opportunity to meet Mark but coresponded with him several times via e-mail. He was very instrumental in getting me the information I was looking for regarding my two 69 Corvairs. A true gentleman and professional.

There is no doubt Mark will be sorely missed by both his close family as well as his extended Corvair family. His knowledge was second to none. There will never be another.
John Wingle
CORSA, Bay State Corvairs, 69 Group

November 22, 2008

I never met Mark in person, but admit that in the short time that I corresponded with him, he was very cordial, informative and so very helpful. His dedication to the hobby will be missed, but I know that from this; his impact is permanent. I am reminded of a quote, and it speaks well of our dealings with Mark, "If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it." -Margaret Fuller. My condolences to Eve and the rest of the Ellis Family.
-chris mann
CORSA, NEWCC, 69 club

Philip Ellis

November 21, 2008

Mark was my uncle. I want to thank everyone for their kind words, for sharing their memories of him, and for their support for Eve.

When I was growing up I spent many hours with Mark hanging around the garage or under a car, helping him fix up old Corvairs. One time -- when I was about 10 or 11 -- he even let me drive his '69 around the cul-de-sac where my grandparents lived. Well, after I ran over their mailbox, that was the end of that experiment. But luckily for me, Mark was always giving me responsibilty and helping me build up my confidence -- usually with much better results. He will be sorely missed.

When I got the terrible news that he had passed, the only way I could think to honor him was to go out in the yard and play with my son -- who's 11 and looks a little like Mark -- the way he had always played with me. But I decided not to let him drive my car. :)

It's still quite a shock to realize that Mark is gone, and in between the happy memories we've shed a lot of tears. But it is comforting to know that a bit of him lives on in all of us. Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers.

Bill Hadley

November 21, 2008

It's so sad to see someone of Mark's stature struck down. It was always a pleasure working with him as part of the '69 Group. I only wish I had gotten to know him better! The many members of the New Orleans Corvair Enthusiasts also send their thoughts.

Kent Sullivan

November 21, 2008

Mark was one of the few true giants in Corvair research and history. He was a fantastic human being and I wish I had been able to know him even better than our collaborations over the years permitted.

His work, especially on the history of the 1969 Corvair and his many years of service to the Corvair Preservation Foundation, are a lasting legacy of his commitment, intelligence, and generosity to the hobby.

Mike Hicks

November 20, 2008

I hung out with Mark at a few Corvair shows. He seemed like a really great guy. I can't believe he's gone. The shows just won't be the same without him - I'm going to miss him. My sympathies to his family.

Steven Barker

November 20, 2008

I was so saddened to learn Mark passed away. Fortunately I met him for first time at Detroit convention in my '69 coupe. Mark was so excited to see my '69 coupe in which was recorded in Finger Tip Facts. I was delighted to receive from him a giant window sticker of our '69 Corvair Group meeting.

My condolences to his family.

A member of CORSA, North East Wisconsin Corvair Club and '69 Group

Jim Stranc

November 20, 2008

We will surely miss Mark and his many things he did for the '69 corvair club, like the window stickers he made. I display mine at all the car shows that I attent and it always gets lots of attention. I will always think of him when I display it in my car. He was a real great guy. I am a member of Corsa, Milwaukee and Madison Corvair Clubs.

Stephan Spence

November 20, 2008

Mark will be missed so much by the corvair community and all whose life he touched. I really appreciated his passion for all he did w/ Corsa and the 1969 Group. His talk at the Detroit Convention on '69 corvairs a few years ago was fabulous. Everyone will truly miss him. I know he is in a better place. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Wade Lanning

November 20, 2008

Mark has been a great asset to the Central Virginia Corvair Club for his leadership as well as his organizational skills and Corvair knowledge. He made invaluable contribution to the operation of the Corvair Museum while it was in Richmond, for which I will be forever grateful. I can not believe he is gone and we will miss him more as time goes on. (CVCC, '69 Group)

Jerry Graham

November 20, 2008

I had never met Mark in person, only over the phone and through letters. I just recently talked with Mark through e-mail a couple of weeks before he got sick. He wanted some pics of my 1969 Corvair 500 for an upcoming article. He was always super nice and very helpful. He will be sorely missed. Wish I had the chance to know him better, as people with his personality and kindness are hard to come by these days. My thoughts and prayers are with you'll. Jerry Graham #4962 Somerset Kentucky

Ed Thompson, a Corvair guy

November 20, 2008

Eve- Per a couple of messages to you last week, I go back to the early 80's w/ Mark, when I bought a '69 convertible, we stayed in touch ever since. Mark was such a class guy, always a kind and gentle word to all who had the opportunity to know him. He is still w/ us in spirit, I, too, am looking for that 1969 penny, and when I find one, I'll know Mark is sending me his love and best wishes. God Bless...

Jim Bartasevich

November 20, 2008

My deepest sympathies, Eve. Mark will be missed by everyone who met him. He was such a generous, helpful, and dedicated guy. I knew him from CORSA and the 1969 Corvair Group.

The following is from a monument at Mark Twain's gravesite: "Death is the starlit strip between the companionship of yesterday and the reunion of tomorrow."

Joshua Weaver

November 20, 2008

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Stuart Shuster

November 20, 2008

My association with Mark has covered many years with CORSA and the 1969 Corvair Group. Mark would write to me with historical information about the Ned Nickles Monza and he appreciated our support in furthering interest in Corvairs. My best to his family and will keep Mark in our Prayers.

Todd Sanders

November 20, 2008

I did not know Mark personally but a member in our Arkansas club stated that whatever Mark Ellis said, "you could take to the bank." My contact with Mark began only a few months ago when a note arrived asking for photos of my '69. He had already compiled a history and was planning on an article in the October newsletter. Shortly after that I learned of his illness. He was so very gracious and sincere in our correspondence. It was evident that he was the type of person that leaves his "mark" on anything he touches. My condolences to his family. They are in our prayers.

Len Armstrong

November 20, 2008

I never met Mark in person but I have always had great respect for him. Being an owner of a '69 I always enjoyed receiving the newsletter and greatly appreciated what he was doing for Corvair owners. Mark's passing saddens us all, we will miss him very much.

Jeffrey Aronson

November 20, 2008

I am one of the thousands of Corvair enthusiasts who benefited from Mark's knowledge, skills as a writer and generosity as a person. I never met him but every time I picked up a reference work on my car I came across his name. As an editor of an automotive enthusiast magazine, I admired his skills. This fall I bought my first copy of "The Compleat of Corvair" and had just read his contribution when his illness was first reported on Virtual Vairs. I am saddened to see such talent taken away at a young age; my best to his family and wide circle of personal friends.

DAVE CLARK

November 20, 2008

i may be the one of the last members of the 69ner gang that mark has signed up and i would like to say thank you to a person who has given so much to us all so we could all gane a little more knowledge and fun into our stressed out lives that we live to day you will be and are greatly missed thank you mark.

Dana MacEwen

November 20, 2008

My heart goes out to you eve and your family.

Kenneth Maxwell

November 20, 2008

Mark and I joined CORSA on the first day back in 1969 and had been pen-pals ever since. He was a wonderful person and will be sorely missed. God rest you Mark!

Edward Shannon

November 19, 2008

I met Mark in Detroit at the convention, when I joined the 69 group. He was so nice. He took the time to answer my questions and made me feel very welcome. Before I even received my first newsletter, Mark sent me a writeup about my car. That meant alot to me. It is people like Mark that make me feel proud to be a corvair owner. Thank's my corvair brother. Rest in Peace

Spencer Shepard

November 19, 2008

Mark made a great contribution to the enjoyment of his favorite car by many of us who shared his pashion. He will be sorely missed.

Chuck Sadek

November 19, 2008

All of us will miss you Mark. You gave so much. Eve, we wish you the best.

SHANTELLE FIELDS

November 14, 2008

MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN THIS TIME OF NEED. MY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU AND YOURS ALWAYS.

Michael Slotwinski

November 13, 2008

A true friend to many
Thank you for your passion

Carolyn Jackson

November 13, 2008

Mark was truly one of the good guys. He had a kind and gentle spirit. Deepest sympathy.

JOHN LOTH

November 13, 2008

I have been a member of CORSA since 1971 and have seen Mark's contributions from the very beginning. It has been a privilege to be a member of the local club to which he belonged. We will truly miss him. He was a great friend. Eve, our prayers are with you.

Russ Owings

November 13, 2008

Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of our good friend and loyal business compatriot. Quiet competence and authentic involvement were trademarks of Mark. God Bless you.

Suzanne Foard

November 13, 2008

My heart is filled with sadness and disbelief. Eve, may you find comfort in your memories and in knowing how much Mark meant to so many people. He was my rock at T&E and I leaned on him often. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jerry Phipps

November 13, 2008

Ii was a pleasure to work with Mark in Baltimore over the years. I can't count the number of times he helped me in those days. Please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss.

Sue Otis

November 13, 2008

Mark was an inspiration to me from the day we met. He went way above and beyond to help me and our entire Fresno crew become better and more knowledgeable about our jobs at ISN. But he wasn't just a great teacher and a great leader - he was a humble, kind hearted friend who will be missed by many. My prayers for God's peace and comfort to the family.

Pete Owings

November 13, 2008

Words can not express my sense of loss with your passing. From those early days at Norristown till the end of Ashland, you have been there for me, the Owings family, and all your co-workers at Tools & Equipment/ISN. My memories of your grace under pressure and willingness to step up to any challenge will be with me forever.
I can't help but be reminded of the time we watched the space shuttle launch heavenward at midnight so many years ago.
Godspeed Mark.

Kathy Kloiber

November 13, 2008

Mark and I worked together for about 18 years. He was a great guy to work with, very knowledgeable and helpful. I will truly miss him. My deepest sympathy to Eve and his family.

Jamey Nelson

November 13, 2008

Mark always had kind words to say. He was and is an ispiration to me and it was a privelage to call him my friend.

Jon Rose

November 13, 2008

I met Mark in Fresno,Ca @ the ISN Whse when we were working to get it up and running. Great guy to talk to.

Pat Crock

November 13, 2008

In times of death the only real comfort is the belief that a better place exist, and I am sure that Mark is there. My sympathy to the family.

DENNIS BROWN

November 13, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the family.Mark will be missed but never forgoten.What stuck out the most was his humbleness and also his calmness in stressful situations.He
always made me feel his calmness which was refreshing to someone as hyper as i was at the age of 22. God bless!!!! From your Old T&E ,ISN Baltimore Buddy Dennis Peace and Love

Pete Weber

November 13, 2008

Mark,

You have been a positive influence on lives of people around the country and around the world. Your kind gentle nature will live on in the memories of many.

ISN and our teammates are better because of you.

We will miss you.

Aletha Jones

November 13, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Nancy Warren

November 13, 2008

I had the opportunity of meeting and working with Mark in Baltimore when Kathy was on vacation. He was very quiet untill you started talking to him and then he fit right in... I am very sorry and express my sincere sympathy to his family and co-workers.

BEULAH CROSBY

November 13, 2008

MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY IN YOUR TIME OF NEED.

Debbie Mellor

November 13, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go out to Mark's friends and loved ones.

It was a pleasure to work with him when he worked here in Baltimore a few years ago. A kind person.

Larry Perkins

November 13, 2008

Mark was a quiet man that thought well before speaking. It was a pleasure always seeing him.

Elaine Grant

November 13, 2008

Mark was a well respected and well liked member of our team. He was generous, patient, and kind and he will be missed.
Please accept our deepest sympathy on your loss.

Robert Frias

November 13, 2008

I knew and worked with Mark briefly here in Baltimore, but his wit and demeanor will stay with me forever. You were missed here before you passed my brother. God Speed

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