Obituary: John Jones Ellis

John Jones Ellis 1/31/1959~10/30/2005 John Jones Ellis passed away October 30, 2005 in Boston, Mass. Born on January 31, 1959 in Salt Lake City, Utah, son of Wallace Hague Ellis and Sue Jones Ellis. In his early years John worked hard doing science fair work projects, practicing the piano, and becoming an Eagle Scout. He was a graduate of Highland High School and attended Northwestern University where he received a B.A. in 1981. He continued his education and received a JD from Boston University and a L.L.M. (taxation) from New York University School of Law in 1985. John practiced law in Boston for 20 years and was currently a member of the Law firm of Gesmer Updegrove. He enjoyed his profession and worked diligently pursuing excellence in all that he did. Among the degrees on his office wall was a certificate of award from Rosslyn Heights Elementary for perfect attendance in 1968. This was always an item of interest and amusement with colleagues and clients. John's sense of adventure began at a young age with summers at Bear Lake and trips with the family. He loved all water sports especially water skiing and in later years scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking. He also enjoyed snow skiing and hiking in the beautiful mountains of Utah. John's love of travel was another interest that took him to destinations all over the world. Whether climbing the glaciers of Torres del Paine, running white water in Costa Rica or exploring the wonders of the Okavanga Delta in Botswana, John experienced every minute to the fullest. John had a wide host of friends in Boston, across the U.S. and all over the world. His loyalty and generosity were well known as was his lightening bolt wit. He will truly be missed but the memories are enduring. "John stories" will be told for years and always with a smile and a laugh. He is survived by his parents Hague and Sue Ellis, his brother Daniel, sisters Elaine (Henry Wurts) and Mary Ann (Brad Cassell) two darling nieces Emma and Madeline. Also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins whom he loved and enjoyed all his life. Private funeral services and a celebration of John's life will be held November 9th in Utah and a memorial will be held in Boston at a later date. Funeral Directors, Lindquist's Ogden Mortuary. Email condolences to the family at lom@lindquistmortuary.com