Howard Holmes Ellis, Jr. passed away peacefully with his sister, Mary Anne Rivers-Friese, at his side on January 22, 2025, in Bellaire, MI after suffering from a long illness.

  Howard was born on February 10, 1937, in Ann Arbor, MI to Howard “Holmes” Ellis, Sr. and Mary Virginia (O’Brien) Ellis. He graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in 1954, and from Aquinas College in 1958, with a degree in English Literature. He received his MSW Degree in Social Work Family Counseling In

 1963, from Michigan State University.

  Howard served in the Air Force as a Language Specialist from 1958-1960. Through the Air Force, he was trained in Chinese at Yale University and he maintained a fondness for all things Asian because of this experience.

  Howard’s first job out of the military was as a French teacher in the Cedar Springs High School in Cedar Springs, MI. He then worked in Administration for the St. Lawrence Hospital in East Lansing, MI.

  Howard spent 15 years in Ontario, Canada as a Family Counselor. He then moved back to the USA and became a Family Counselor in East Jordan, MI. He also went on to be a very popular Substitute Teacher.

  While living in East Jordan, Howard volunteered for 25 years on the Jordan River Arts Council Board. He was named Volunteer of the Year for the city of East Jordan for his many community services including the Friends of the Library, Wagbo Peace Farm, Socrates Café, Writers Club, local theater productions, Concerts in the Park and the East Jordan Garden Club.

  Howard was preceded in death by his parents. His surviving family includes his sisters Mary Anne Rivers-Friese (Gordon Friese) and Skyler Elizabeth Ellis. His nieces Karen Langseth (Steve), Cindy Spielmaker (Jerry Morlock), Anne Rivers (Mark Werkema), Cathy Pisciotta (Peter), Elizabeth Rivers and Kelly Kruger. And his nephews Rick Spielmaker (Deb) and James Robertson. Howard is also survived by his cousins Tom Male, Bonnie Shank, Margaret Kelly and Rob Male.

  Howard was well read, thoughtful and enjoyed his debates to the end. His insights into life, art, politics and the world will be missed. He had a smile for everyone and made many friends whom he kept throughout his life.

  A celebration of life for Howard will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. at his beloved farm, 2131 Vance Road,  East Jordan, Michigan.

  Arrangements are being handled by Penzien  Funeral Home of East Jordan, MI.

  Memorial gifts can be made to Jordan River Arts Council, PO Box 1178, East Jordan, Michigan 49727.