John R. Ellison, age 85 of Mecosta, passed away unexpectedly at his home Wednesday, November 21, 2007. He was born June 2, 1922 in Corunna, MI to Edward and Anna Marie (Hanson) Ellison. As a child John's family moved to Big Rapids where he grew up and graduated from Big Rapids High School. He married Mae Amanda Long on July 3, 1941. John began his career with Michigan Bell Telephone in Big Rapids and soon after entered the United States Army serving during World War II. Following his honorable discharge from the service John returned to work at Michigan Bell. For many years John, Mae and the family made their home in Garden City. After his retirement John and Mae returned to the area making their home at Pretty Lake. He is survived by his loving wife of a remarkable 66 years, Mae Ellison of Mecosta. Three beloved children; Sandra (Manuel) Rodriguez of Mesa, Arizona Cheryl Gaither of Mecosta Duane (Patricia) Ellison of Rose Township six grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, John was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Connie, three brothers; Edward, Chet, and Carl Ellison, a sister, Lillian Coe and a son-in-law; Wm. "Jerry" Gaither. Funeral services will take place 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 25th at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with burial at Pine Plains Cemetery. The family will greet friends at the funeral home on Saturday, Nov. 24 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and one hour prior to services on Sunday. Memorial contributions may be made to the D.A.V. Chapter #18 of Big Rapids where John was a proud member.