Allen J. Ellis

Allen J. Ellis, 78, Auburn, passed away Monday, February 22, 2021.

Allen was born September 28, 1942 in Council Grove, the son of Harry and Lucille (Hewitt) Ellis. He graduated from Council Grove Rural High School in 1961.

Allen started his ironworking career in 1969 as an apprentice. He worked in the gang to perfect his craft.

He worked his way through the ranks to become a job foreman and Superintendent for one of the largest companies in the Topeka area; honing his craft and developing a work ethic like none other as many would attest to.

Allen then started Kaw Valley Iron Erectors in 1984; he did jobs on handshakes and trust, back when that counted and meant something. Allen not only made sure his jobs ran well but he made sure his employees were taken care of and much was done without anyone knowing anything about it, he just took care of whatever problem would arise.

Allen worked on many jobs in the Topeka, Lawrence and Manhattan area as a foreman/superintendent and his work footprint can be seen throughout the area. This continued as he began Kaw Valley Erectors in 1984. His company built and worked on many projects including: Washburn University, Good Year Tire and Rubber plant, K-State, the Water Treatment plant in Topeka and a plethora of retail and entertainment venues in Topeka, Lawrence and Manhattan. One of Kaw Valley's signature projects was the Installation of the Indian on top of the Capital building in Topeka. This was one of his last projects to commemorate a 42 year career in the industry.

Kaw Valley Iron Erectors employed many Iron workers over the years and helped them gain not only employment but a craft and a way of life. Allen always cared about his employees and made sure they never wanted for tools or necessities. He lived his life much the same way, always caring and taking care of those around him.

Allen Ellis was a man of integrity and kindness and the Industry and the world is less with his absence.

He was a member of Iron Workers Local #10 for 42 years and Countryside United Methodist Church.

Allen married Connie Sue Mercer on December 14, 1963 in Council Grove. His wife of 58 years survives. Other survivors include children, Tanya (Mark) Biswell, Topeka, Monte (Jodi) Ellis, Olathe, Michael (Amy) Ellis, Liberty, MO; grandchildren, Breanna Biswell, Brook Biswell, Brandy Biswell, Dalton Ellis, Jake Ellis, Nickalas Ellis, Graceann Ellis; great-grandchildren, Peyton Heitmann, Jessi Heitmann, Weston Heitmann, Layla Biswell; and sister, Lanette Ellis.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Eugene Ellis.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2021 at the Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Road. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time on Saturday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Topeka Rescue Mission in the name of Allen Jay Ellis.

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Click the image below to watch Allen's service.