Obituary of Kenneth R. Ellis

Kenneth R. Ellis, 94, of Clark Mills, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Sherburne, NY, on October 27, 1931, son of late Harold L. and Alice (Snyder) Ellis. Ken worked for the Laborers Union of Utica until his retirement. He was married to Catherine Koury Ellis for 40 years, raising their children together. Ken was a 50-year member of the Helmuth-Ingalls American Legion Post #232 and member of the VFW #9591 Auxiliary.  He enjoyed camping on the St. Lawrence, golfing at Westmoreland Golf Club and was an avid bowler and member of the Utica Bowling Association where he served as President in 1980. Ken was also a member of the Clark Mills Historical Society and the Kirkland Seniors.  Ken made friends wherever he went and never met a stranger.

He will be missed by his children, Judy Hinman and her fiancé Jack Albright, Laurie and Eddie Bluff, Kenny and MaryAnn Ellis, Janice and Peter Atkinson, and Carol and Ken Cameron; his five grandchildren, Stephanie, Jessica, Michael, Cadie and Mark; five great-grandchildren, Noah, Jack, Sammy, Max and Josh; 2 great-great grandchildren, Aiden and Lily; his fiancée and companion of 35 years Sharleen Machold; his step children, Jamye Potucek and Bonnie Jacobs; many nieces and nephews; and the mother of his children, Catherine Koury Ellis; and Bob Shepherd who was like a son to him.  He was predeceased by his son Michael in 1981, his parents, and his seven brothers and sisters.

All are invited to visitation on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 3-6pm at Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, 35 College St., Clinton.  Funeral services will be held at 6pm at the funeral home with Fr. Paul Angelicchio officiating.  Ken will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Rome Humane Society or the Helmuth-Ingalls American Legion Post #232.

The family thanks the nurses and staff at MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Home for the wonderful care and compassion shown to Ken and his family.