Obituary of LaNeice C. Ellis

LaNeice (Lea) Caroline Ellis, age 90, passed away peacefully February 7, 2017 at Atrium Post Acute Care in Wisconsin Rapids with her family at her side. Lea was born March 13, 1926 in Auburndale, WI to Phillip and Josephine (Heindl) Kohlbeck and was the 7th of 8 children. Lea moved to Wisconsin Rapids in the mid 1940’s becoming a lifelong resident. She worked at a variety of occupations over the years including commercial and residential cleaning, grocery stores and bartending. Over the years she came to know everyone and their families. In addition to working outside of the home, she raised 5 children, made sure everyone was well fed, even unexpected guest. Her homemade potato bread was a family favorite. She always had a large garden and preserved foods for the winter months. Lea still found time to sew a special dress, costume and much of her own clothes. She enhanced every home she lived in with planting flowers, trees, and landscaping. She always sported a great tan. Shopping was another pleasure. Christmas shopping started in September with careful consideration given to each recipient. No one was left out. Lea especially enjoyed spending time with her grand and great grandchildren, sharing birthdays, holidays, and special events. She loved all the cards and artwork they made for her. She also enjoyed visiting with her family’s friends, relatives, neighbors or anyone she met. LaNeice is survived by her children: James (Cindy) Ellis, Shiela Ellis, Greg “Bud” (Robin) Ellis, Mark Ellis, and Julie Strand; her grandchildren: Jordan (Summer), Nick, Christine (Doug), RaeAnn (Justin), Nigel, and Ray; great grandchildren: Parker, Forest, Gabrielle, Lyndon, Madyson, Alexis, Isabella, Lilly, Jackson, Logan, and Lilly Ann; and many nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. LaNeice was preceded in death by her parents, brothers: Anthony, William and Robert Kohlbeck; sisters: Lucille Kohlbeck, Verona (Vernon) Fisher, Lorraine (Ted) Christianson, and Mary Jean (Edward) Gill; and a very special friend, Ellen Brody.