Mervin Alonzo Ellison's Obituary
Mervin A. Ellison, age 96, of Moravia, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Oakwood Specialty Care in Albia.
He was born September 4, 1923 in Albia, Iowa, the son of Roy and Bernice (Turner) Ellison. Raised in Moravia, Mervin graduated from Moravia High School. He was united in marriage to Marie Helen Kauzlarich on March 17, 1945 and to this union, two children were born, Jim and Ron.
Mervin owned and operated Ellison Construction for thirty-five years until his retirement. Along with his professional dedication to his business throughout his working career, Mervin also emphasized the importance of giving back to his community through civic action. For instance, he spent many years as a councilman on the Moravia City Council. Furthermore, Mervin volunteered many hours restoring and improving the infrastructure throughout the community, including grading both the Moravia school track and ball fields, as well as assistance in numerous structural improvements to many community buildings.
It should be noted that Mervin and Marie enjoyed many winters in Florida throughout the years. Most importantly, he cherished the time he was able to spend with his family, especially his children and grandchildrens sporting events.
Mervin is survived by his wife, Marie Helen Kauzlarich of Moravia, Iowa; two children, Jim Ellison of Liberty, Missouri and Ron (Patti Meyer) Ellison of Ottumwa, Iowa; a brother, Ken Ellison of Ackworth, Iowa; four grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and two sisters-in-law, Judy Kauzlarich of Centerville, Iowa and Rose (Robert) Widmer of Silvis, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two siblings, Dorothy Marie Valentine and Mary Ellen Lathen; in-laws, George and Tina Kauzlarich; a daughter-in-law, Dixie Ellison; four sisters-in-law; five brothers-in-law; and two nephews.
According to wishes, cremation has been accorded and private graveside services will be held in Mervins honor. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to Care Initiatives Hospice and may be mailed to Lange Funeral Home and Crematory, 1900 S. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa, 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com.
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