Russell C. Ellis

As the sun crested over Brush Mountain Monday morning, Russell C. "Rusty" Ellis, 87, Altoona, graduated to glory while surrounded by his family. Born in Altoona, he was the son of the late Charles E. and Esther R. (Simington) Ellis. On July 4, 1947, he married Esther Stitt who preceded him in death in June of 2005. On June 30, 2013, he married Norma Wible. Rusty will be best remembered from his work at Wissinger's, IGA with over 40 years' service. He started his career as a meat cutter advancing through to General Manager and retiring as Partner and Vice President. He was respected by both customers and employees alike for his calm, cheerful demeanor and his warm smile. He also served with distinction on many area boards. Rusty was a longstanding member of the Christian Missionary Alliance Church of Altoona having served as Trustee and Chairman of the Elder Board. Rusty served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and Korea. He was honorably discharged on October 16, 1951. He also volunteered for 20 plus years at the Altoona Hospital Department of Radiology. Rusty was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates fan as well as Penn State. He is survived by his wife: Norma and her extended family; two sons: Timothy Ellis (Vanessa) of Pittsburgh and Dr. R.T. Ellis (April) of Louisville, KY; six grandchildren: Meredith Clark (Aaron), Elizabeth Kline (Jamie), Tom Jolley (Abby), Madeline, Patrick and Caroline Ellis; and one great granddaughter: Elise Kline; two sisters: Mona Selwitz (Jim) and Cathy Dean (Doug); and three sister-in-laws: Angie Ellis, Gennie Stitt and Janet Stitt. He was preceded in death by a son, Ronald; two brothers: Charles E. "Chick" and Francis; two sisters: Joanne Smith and Anne Louise Ellis. Family and friends will be received, Tuesday, November 25 from 2 to 8 PM at the Altoona Alliance Church, 3220 Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona. A funeral service will be held, Wednesday, November 26 at 10:30 AM, also at the church. Pastor Tim McGarvey officiating. Entombment at Alto-Reste Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Altoona Alliance Church Building Fund.