Melvin F. Ellis

Melvin F. Ellis, 90, a lifelong resident of Ithaca, passed away on Sunday, July 29, 2018, at Cayuga Medical Center with his family by his side. Born in Ithaca on November 19, 1927, he was a son of the late Lloyd and Malvina Beach Ellis. Immediately following graduation from Ithaca High School in 1945, Mel enlisted in the United States Navy near the end of World War II and served until 1947, when he was honorably discharged as a RDM3. After proudly serving his country, Mel joined his brother, Lloyd, at Charjan’s Gift Shop, where they ran the family business for nearly forty years. On January 7, 1951, he married the love of his life, the former Aileen Brown.

Mel had the good fortune to retire at the age of 58 and spent many years playing rummy at the Elks; an activity in which he participated almost daily. Mel took great pleasure in his accomplishment of earning his private pilot license from the GI Bill after returning from the Navy. He also enjoyed morning walks and “garage sitting” with his Bundy Road family. For the past 35 years, Mel and Aileen were lucky enough to call Boca Raton, FL, home for a few months each winter.

Mel was a life member of the Elks and the American Legion and was also a member of the VFW, all in Ithaca.

In addition to his wife of 67 years, Aileen, Mel is survived by his children, Melvin Jr. (Pam), Michael and Melanie (David) Rogers; grandchildren, Brandon, Ashley, Brittni, Justin, Jeffrey and Thomas; two great-grandchildren; brother, Lloyd Jr.; sister, Mary Ellen (Camillo) Bordoni; goddaughter, Sandra Gewinner of Baldwinsville; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Derrick Rogers.

There will be no services at this time. Private burial in the family plot at Hayts Cemetery, Ithaca, will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to a charity of your choice.

Mel’s family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Old Hundred for the very special care he received.

Mel was a good and kind man and will be greatly missed.

To share a memory, please visit the online memorial at www.lansingfuneralhome.com.