Richard William Ellis ’51

Richard William Ellis ’51 died on November 3, 2010, in Covenant Village Nursing Home in Cromwell, Connecticut, of complications of Parkinson’s disease. Born in Philadelphia, he grew up in Wethersfield, Connecticut, graduating from its high school. He majored in government, was a member of Theta Chi and served in the Winter Carnival committee. After graduation he went to work for the Travelers Insurance Co. in July, married Susan Adams in October and enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in November. After two years of active duty he resumed his employment with Travelers, spanning four decades and retiring in 1991 as a division vice president in its group department. He remained active in the Coast Guard Reserves before retiring in 1972 with the rank of lieutenant commander. Fathering five children encouraged him to serve 12 years on his hometown’s school board, the last four as chairman. He was a member of the First Church of Christ since 1946 and served as deacon. After retiring from Travelers he coached the Trinity College women’s softball team for five years as well as Wethersfield Little League teams and senior league. Dick is survived by sons David, Michael and Peter, daughter Jennifer and nine grandchildren. He was predeceased by Susan and son Richard III.