Walter Ellison

Walter Ellison entered into eternal life in the arms of Jesus on June 12, 2011. After a courageous battle with cancer and surrounded by his loved ones, Walter peacefully took his last breath. Walter was born July 28, 1926 in the beautiful mountains of Newport, Tennessee. A World War II and Korean Conflict Veteran, Walter served his country with pride. He joined the Navy when he was 17 years old; he then joined the Army. His love for his country was evident when he retired from the United States Air Force after serving 25 years. He then retired from the City of El Paso after working 20 years for the Animal Control and Regulations Department. He was a dedicated husband and father. In Germany, on October 5, 1948, Walter married the love of his life, Susanna M. Bayer. In 1949 they moved to the United States where they eventually settled in El Paso and raised 6 children. Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Euless Green and Fanny Wren; sister, Francis Hollifield, and his beloved grandson, Tony VanVelkingburgh. He is survived by his loving wife, Susanna; sons, Walter Ellison (Beth) and Karl Ellison (Katherine); daughters, Fran Preheim (Stuart); Linda Eimers (Phillip); Debbie VanVelkinburgh (Rock); and Tammy Butler (John); and 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank Richard and Brenda for the loving and excellent care they gave our Dad and for the wonderful support provided to our family. We would also like to thank Margarita and Bertha for their patience, love and excellent care at the onset of his illness as well as Odyssey Hospice for helping us through the process. God Bless all of you. Visitation will be held from 5-9pm with a Prayer Service to begin at 7pm, Thursday, June 16, 2011 at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast, 4631 Hondo Pass. A Committal Service will be held at 11am, Friday, June, 17 2011 at Fort Bliss National Cemetery “West Shelter” with Full Military Honors.