Daniel Guy Ellis, 61, of Valrico, FL, left this earth on October 20, 2008 following a long illness. He was a native of Coudersport, PA, where he attended school, graduating in 1965. He was a member of the championship basketball team that made it to the state finals in 1964, and was also involved in football, track, band, chorus, Latin team, math team, always an active class member. He attended West Virginia University, graduating in 1969 with a BS in Accounting. He later earned his Master's Degree in Chicago. In 1966 he married Becky Hammond, junior high sweetheart, also of Coudersport, and they remained together for 42 years.

He has a long and successful career with Masonite International Corporation where he proudly became a member of Masonite's Quarter Century Club in 2007. He was highly respected by everyone in his company.

Dan was an avid golfer, hunter and shooter, crossword puzzler, reader and a student of the American Civil War. He also enjoyed fine wine, food and good friends. Dan's dry wit and sense of humor consistently kept everyone laughing.

Above all other things Dan loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Becky; daughter, Jennifer Sheeler of Stillwater, MN; son, Lee Ellis of Evanston, IL; grandson, Sean Sheeler of Stillwater, MN; granddaughter, Bryn of Stillwater, MN; son-in-law, Bill Sheeler of Stillwater, MN; sister, Andrea Papp and her husband, Al Papp, of Peachtree City, GA; and a brother, David Ellis and his wife, Stella, of San Jose, CA. He will be missed by so many.

The family extends many thanks to Tampa General Hospital, Lifelink, DSI Renal Services, and the many, many family members and friends who have offered help and prayers during Dan's difficult time.

A Celebration Dan's Life will be held at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home on Thursday, October 23, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Dan's name may be made to the American Heart Association or the National Kidney Foundation.