Richard Ellis

Richard D. Ellis, 77, of New London, IA, died Thursday, February 16, 2017, at Arbor Court in Mt. Pleasant, IA. According to his wishes, Richard has been cremated. The family will be hosting a celebration of life gathering at a later date. Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel of Mt. Pleasant has assisted the family. On-line condolences may be directed to www.olsonpowell.com. Born February 5, 1940, in Marshalltown, IA, Richard Dale was the son of Herman and Ruth Osgood Ellis. He graduated from Mason City High School in 1959. On November 17, 1962, he married Bonnie Lou Reynolds in Mason City, IA. Following high school, Richard worked construction in Mason City. For several years, he was a machinist for John Deere in Waterloo, IA, until the time of his retirement. Following retirement, Richard owned and operated Maaco Auto Painting and Body Works for many years. He then moved to Phoenix, AZ, where he sold real estate. A jack of all trades, Richard could build or fix almost anything. He enjoyed drag racing and in the late 60's set the United Drag Racing Association world record in his class at one time.Along with his wife, Bonnie, of 54 years, Richard is survived by a daughter, Kristine (Gary) Bruhwiler of Mustang, OK; a son, Richard (Maggie) Ellis, Jr. of Mt. Pleasant, IA; a brother, David (Jenny) Ellis of Waterloo, IA; and a sister, Donna Weitzel of Mason City, IA. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Aaron Hughbanks, Colby Hughbanks, Tyler Hughbanks, Kory Bruhwiler, Joseph Collins, Jenna Ellis, Dustin Boone, Lizzy Boone, and Lexy Boone, along with numerous great-grandchildren.Richard was preceded in death by his parents and one great-grandson.