Obituary for Ellis E. Kell (Guest book)

Message from Troy Harris

May 2, 2017 11:55 PM

I was sorry to hear of the loss of Ellis. It is truly a loss to the Quad City music world. He used to come into the President Casino and kindle compliment me on the music I did as a pianist there. We will miss you. Sadly my girlfriend Marcia Mandle died on December 12 and I had no idea he had left us. My heart goes out to all those for whom he touched. Rest in Peace.

A candle was lit by Suzanne Koepplinger on December 27, 2016 7:21 PM

A candle was lit by Greg & Megan on December 24, 2016 3:02 PM

Message from Lisa and Amir Arbisser

December 23, 2016 4:19 PM

He was an exceptional man with all the qualities we all wish for; empathy, creativity and the will for hard work and implementation of ideas. He will be much missed. We hope grief will soon fade to fond memory.

A candle was lit by The Big River Brass Band on December 22, 2016 1:14 PM

Message from Phyllis and Jerry Miller and the BRBB (Big River Brass Band)

December 22, 2016 1:06 PM

Our prayers and sympathy go out to the family and loved ones of our dear musician friend, Ellis Kell. He has been such a promoter and supporter of live music in the Quad Cities. There are so many memories and stories to be shared. Thank you Ellis for sharing your music with so many of us. Musically yours, Phyllis and Jerry Miller

Message from Carolyn Fowler

December 22, 2016 4:32 AM

I've enjoyed your music over the years and followed all the wonderful things you have done for our community. You will truly be missed. RIP Ellis Kell

Message from Ryan West and West Music

December 21, 2016 8:08 PM

Ellis was a tireless advocate and artist and an incredible member of our musical community. He will be missed and the impact he made will be felt for many years to come. Through his passionate performances, his emphasis on education and participation, and his role in the community, Ellis was truly one of a kind. Ellis, you will be missed. Rest in peace and our condolences and prayers for your family.
-The Entire West Music Family

A candle was lit by Mark and Sally Trulson on December 21, 2016 6:25 PM

A candle was lit by Coree Toalson Graham , Cape Coral, Florida on December 21, 2016 3:23 PM

Message from Jan Ransom Muscatine

December 21, 2016 2:04 PM

Most heartfelt love and sympathy Kristi to you and your family. We were great fans of the Whoozedads and enjoyed them whenever possible. I remember one time outside of RME building enjoyed coffee and over our shoulders there was Ellis and Hal Reed so went in and enjoyed. I treasure my Stones over Water CD. May God wrap his arms around you and comfort you.

A candle was lit by June Butts on December 21, 2016 1:08 PM

A candle was lit by Mary & Kevin Cox on December 21, 2016 1:05 PM

Message from Diane Schafer

December 21, 2016 12:08 PM

My deepest condolences to you Kristi and your faintly. My heart breaks for you. RIP Ellis.

Message from Sheila Hill Henson and Patricia Hill Donahue

December 21, 2016 11:07 AM

"Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand."
We will miss your beautiful music. We cannot attend but you will be in our hearts forever.
Your cousins:
Sheila Hill Henson - Colona, IL
Patricia Hill Donahue - Grand Mound, Ia

A candle was lit by Stephanie Kyle on December 21, 2016 10:07 AM

Message from Andrea Zinga and Chuck McClurg

December 21, 2016 8:46 AM

Our fond memories of working with Ellis and enjoying his music will live on for ever. Ellis was a dear friend and we will miss him.

A candle was lit by Bearl & Denise Rice Bruffett on December 21, 2016 7:24 AM

Message from Denise Rice Bruffett

December 21, 2016 7:22 AM

Our Condolences to his Family & Friends.
Ellis was a great guy and will be truly missed.

Message from Don & Lynn (Chambers) Barry

December 21, 2016 5:01 AM

Kristi & Ali, I am so very sorry for your double loss.
Please know that you are in our prayers.
Aunt Rose, Marsha, Sandy and family, I am very sorry for your loss.

Don & Lynn (Chambers) Barry

A candle was lit by Tracy Eckert on December 21, 2016 3:00 AM

A candle was lit by "RETRO RON" on December 21, 2016 12:35 AM

Message from DAVENPORT IOWA

December 21, 2016 12:35 AM

For the family! I give my deepest sympathy to you! Ellis played with me on stage at Mojo's early on and was very forgiving that our styles didn't quite match, but he played on. It will be a memory I will always treasure. His talent was quite evident. I had no idea he was even ill. He will be missed by so many. Thank you for your contributions to the Quad city music scene. "Retro Ron" 12/ 16

Message from Kathleen Waller

December 21, 2016 12:12 AM

Ellis, someone who never forgot a friend...you will be missed

Message from Alex and Lynn Pareigis

December 21, 2016 12:08 AM

Deepest sympathy to Kristi and the whole extended family . I last spoke with Ellis a few weeks ago .Besides the obvious , we spoke about Red Beans and Rice . I thought I'd surprise him at chemo , but I waited to long . Another reminder to not put off things assuming there will be a tommorow . I hope he had an easy death , the path before him was going to be rough , a man this decent deserved a peacful passing . He was realistic , determined to persevere , and ready to accept God's will . He was a man .

Message from R. Smith/The Townedgers

December 20, 2016 11:43 PM

RIP to a good man and legend who did his best to support local music in the Quad Cities area and continue to support the up and coming artists. He shall be missed.

Message from Mary Jackson

December 20, 2016 10:49 PM

Kristi, Ali and Family. My deepest sympathy to you in the loss of your beloved Ellis. I remember him singing with your granddaughter Karli at our Christmas Party. A song I think she had written. I was impressed by his gentleness and genuineness. Having worked with you Kristi, I felt as though I knew Ellis personally. The QC and the QC music community have lost an icon. My prayers for you and your family. Take care of each other.

Message from Angela Stadnik

December 20, 2016 9:06 PM

Ellis was a huge influence on my brother, Douglas Wiegel. His time with Doug helped him musically and helped him find his purpose. When we lost my brother earlier this year, Ellis was a comfort for my family in so many ways - from finding music we could use for Doug's video memorial, to giving hugs and a listening ear for my parents, to helping my father get a special guitar repaired (it was very damaged in the accident that took Doug's life). My family will always be so grateful for all the ways Ellis touched our lives.

A candle was lit by Amy Gibeau on December 20, 2016 9:02 PM

A candle was lit by Karin Youngberg (Augustana) on December 20, 2016 8:02 PM

A candle was lit by Mike & Pat Limberg on December 20, 2016 7:38 PM

Message from Holly Langill and Randy Morris

December 20, 2016 6:39 PM

The Quad-Cities music scene has suffered a HUGE loss. We are long-time fans and will miss him dearly. What a kind and generous man.

A candle was lit by Bev Thorman on December 20, 2016 6:33 PM

Message from Mike and MJ Wallace

December 20, 2016 6:32 PM

Kristi, Rose, Ali and all, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Take care.

A candle was lit by Nancy Powers on December 20, 2016 6:23 PM

A candle was lit by Sally May(Wendling) on December 20, 2016 6:14 PM

A candle was lit by John and Karen Fuller on December 20, 2016 4:17 PM

Message from John and Karen Fuller

December 20, 2016 4:15 PM

Ellis was such a great friend and mentor to so many young musicians. His good work gave so many of them the opportunity to develop their own special talents. He is part of our music heritage now, but he has left the blues in good hands. We are sure there will be many memorial jams to honor his memory, and heartfelt enough to be heard in music heaven. Thanks for all you have done Ellis Kell. Love and Peace.

A candle was lit by Nancy Powers on December 20, 2016 3:47 PM

Message from Susan McPeters

December 20, 2016 2:53 PM

Ellis Kell was truly one of "the good guys". I don't know of anyone who ever heard him say an unkind word about anyone. That type of individual can be difficult to find in the music business. I feel his kindness, generosity and staunch commitment to music education for the young people in our area as well as "Keeping the Blues Alive" surpass his musical talent. That's saying a lot. My deepest sympathy to the Kell family. Thank you for sharing Ellis with us.

Message from Cindy and Larry Bender

December 20, 2016 2:09 PM

Kristi & Family - you are in our prayers and thoughts. Ellis will be deeply missed.

Message from Mark Mikenas - Kewanee Chamber of Commerce

December 20, 2016 1:22 PM

Sorry to hear of the passing of Ellis. I met him way back in 1986 when he wore his Mike Ditka sweater while working at the Argus and I was managing Weavers Chicken in Rock Island. Fast forward 28 years later when I was lucky enough to land him and the band to play in Kewanee at our Concert in the Park Series and again this past July when they played here again. His unique way to tell a story will be missed.

Mark Mikenas- Kewanee Chamber of Commerce

Expression of Sympathy

A BASKET GARDEN was sent by Janis & Ron Holt on December 20, 2016

Expression of Sympathy

A TRADITIONAL FUNERAL BASKET was sent on December 20, 2016

RIP old friend. You should be proud that you were able to touch so many hearts, minds, and spirits.

Message from Joanne France-Silas

December 20, 2016 1:06 PM

Kristi my Prayers are with you and your family. May God bless you all during this transition.

A candle was lit by Anthony and Julie Potenzo on December 20, 2016 12:09 PM

Message from Adrienne Yokas Johnson

December 20, 2016 11:52 AM

Kristi and Family - I am so sorry for your loss and the loss to our community. I am keeping you and your family in my prayers.

A candle was lit by Marcy Geisler-Gavaghan on December 20, 2016 11:15 AM

Message from Stephanie Akers

December 20, 2016 11:08 AM

What an amazing loss to the Quad City Area! Hearts are breaking but Angels in heaven have gained a friend! God bless his family and May God keep his arms wrapped around you during this most difficult time.

A candle was lit by Gina Work on December 20, 2016 11:04 AM

Message from Gina Work

December 20, 2016 11:02 AM

I first met Ellis in high school. Handsome and persistent. I remember him as a sweet, kind, funny, very talented man. Rest in peace music man.

Message from Kevin hamilton

December 20, 2016 10:37 AM

Sincere condolences to Ellis' family for your loss. May it comfort you to know that your loss is shared by many . Ellis affected many lives in the quad cities and he leaves a legacy of music, service, and kindness. May the God of peace comfort you.

A candle was lit by Kristin, Simon and Secily on December 20, 2016 10:35 AM

Message from Colette (Plum) Bishop

December 20, 2016 9:29 AM

Kristi & Family you have our prayers and thoughts. I know we have not kept in touch but I think of you often. Take care of yourself.

A candle was lit by Diane Miller Richardson, Springfield, MO Class of '73 on December 20, 2016 9:27 AM

A candle was lit by Mark and Kathe Arnould on December 20, 2016 9:14 AM

A candle was lit by Wanda Elliott on December 20, 2016 8:26 AM

Message from Matt Nicol

December 20, 2016 7:47 AM

A beautiful man, wonderful human being. My prayers are with his family and close friends. I will miss Ellis too.

A candle was lit by Matt Nicol on December 20, 2016 7:43 AM

Message from Joseph T. Spratt

December 20, 2016 6:22 AM

To the Family of Ellis: May the many wonderful memories carry you through this time of sorrow. He has touch so may lives by his music but more importantly by his friendship and sincere words of encouragement. May God Bless and Keep as he always does. Wow, just in time to join the bands of heaven above, what joyous music.
Joe Spratt

A candle was lit by Richard and Molly Burns on December 20, 2016 6:02 AM

Message from David Heitz

December 20, 2016 5:42 AM

Words cannot express what a loss to the Quad-Cities this is. My deepest sympathies to his family, who has suffered so many tragedies, including the loss of Karli, which happened shortly after I returned to the Quad-Cities from Los Angeles. I was working with Ellis at the Dispatch at that time. In a town where the politics are dirty and the problems are many, Ellis rose above all of that and brought pure joy, goodness and hope to our community, even after the tragic loss of our daughter. He did this not only through his music but his actions, his genuine smile, and his spirit. If we could all model our lives after the way in which Ellis lived his, our community would be much better off. RIP, Ellis!

A candle was lit by Tom Norman / Steady Rollin on December 20, 2016 1:15 AM

Message from Steven Heath

December 20, 2016 1:03 AM

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Kell family. Ellis will be missed by many. Truly a Quad City hero. God's Speed my friend.

A candle was lit by Traci Malone and Family on December 20, 2016 12:34 AM

Message from Tom Johnston

December 19, 2016 9:08 PM

Thanks to Ellis, the music will always be heard. Keep playing for your new fans, my friend. Condolences to the entire Kell family.

A candle was lit by Brad Hilligoss on December 19, 2016 9:03 PM

A candle was lit by Pat Cotton on December 19, 2016 7:40 PM

Message from Tim

December 19, 2016 7:18 PM

Having seen Ellis perform many times over the years I enjoyed his music. I had heard he was a "good guy". Then In 2009 I was a part of the education department at WIU/Moline. We had a 13 year old whom wanted to play guitar and had little hope of any future in life. I contacted Ellis, we had never met; I shared the story and he asked that the student come to meet with him. Ellis saw that young man received a new guitar and lessons for one year....all free. A couple years later my friends young teenage son aspired to play the blues. He met Ellis at a competition and the young mans band won the blues challenge that year......another young person whom was mentored by Ellis. Ellis touched many lives in positives ways. He was indeed a humble and kind soul, a "good guy" . My prayers to the family.

Message from Sharon T. (Poe) Penn

December 19, 2016 6:47 PM

My condolences and prayers to the family of Ellis. He was one of the young people that grew up in my neighborhood. The family were wonderful people. Remember the scripture at Acts 24:15, John 5:28, 29; and Revelation 21:3, 4.

Message from Donna Mead

December 19, 2016 6:08 PM

It was such a joy knowing and working with Ellis at The Leader and The Dispatch. He always had an infectious laugh and a warm smile. My deepest condolences to his beautiful wife Kristi and daughter Ali. Ellis will truly be missed by so many. I am saddened by his passing, but happy that I knew him and could call him my friend.

A candle was lit by Donna Mead on December 19, 2016 5:58 PM

Message from Mark & Julie Breecher

December 19, 2016 5:56 PM

Ellis will always remind me that good guys do win out. The band in heaven is strong now.....

A candle was lit by Lauren Valerius on December 19, 2016 5:51 PM

A candle was lit by Mark & Julie Breecher on December 19, 2016 5:50 PM

A candle was lit by Scott and Liz Chaney on December 19, 2016 5:31 PM

A candle was lit by Matt and Mary Podschweit on December 19, 2016 5:11 PM

A candle was lit by Troy and Aimee Porter on December 19, 2016 4:50 PM

Message from Janis Aversing Housley

December 19, 2016 4:09 PM

Very sorry to hear of Ellis' passing. This will effect the QC community deeply for he was such a giving musician that gave back so much to the entire QC area.... My prayers go out to his family and many, many friends that he made over his life in the QC....
RIP Ellis and strength to his beloved family at this difficult time, especially through the Holiday season🎄

A candle was lit by Cathie and Perry Rochau, East Moline, IL on December 19, 2016 4:05 PM

A candle was lit by chuck penn on December 19, 2016 3:36 PM

Message from Peggy Dreyer

December 19, 2016 3:04 PM

For me, the enjoyment of your music spans many years. From many nights at Gatsby's in Moline, including your CD release party, to bringing my children to RME on field trips to hear your wonderful stories and music. You have touched so many lives, and your music and kind ways will pass through all of us for many years to come. Kristi and family, you have my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Message from Debra Carlson

December 19, 2016 2:50 PM

No words to express the sadness of the slipping away of this kind and beautiful soul. His gift of music he shared with us. Thank you Ellis, you are missed. My deepest symphony to his family at this sad time.

A candle was lit by Debra Carlson on December 19, 2016 2:44 PM

A candle was lit by Deb Ford on December 19, 2016 2:16 PM

Message from Kent & Gerri Bowers

December 19, 2016 1:59 PM

RIP Ellis, Thank You for caring so much about music & the RME. Prayers for your family.

A candle was lit by Kent & Gerri Bowers on December 19, 2016 1:53 PM

A candle was lit by Fred, Arlyce & Nate Musal on December 19, 2016 12:33 PM

A candle was lit by Lynne Morris on December 19, 2016 11:48 AM

A candle was lit by Jeff and Susie Sergeant on December 19, 2016 11:01 AM

Message from Jeff and Susie Sergeant

December 19, 2016 11:01 AM

Our deepest sympathy to Ellis's family. What a truly wonderful person. Jeff played ball with him when they were young and Ellis used to tell me his hand would sting after catching Jeff's pitches. When I worked above RME I used to get to see him every day and what a joy it was to have just those few moments to chat. Ellis was my third cousin. He is definitely a legend in his time! So many lives were touched by his gentle heart. There's a jam fest going on in heaven right now and Ellis had a huge smile on his face. You will be forever fondly remembered our friend. Many you find some small comfort in knowing he is pain free and playing guitar and singing. He will be there to watch over you. The many many lives he touched is and how he will be remembered is just one small tribute. RIP, Ellis, you will be deeply missed.

A candle was lit by Scott and Kathy Heth on December 19, 2016 10:26 AM

Message from Brian VanSpeybroeck

December 19, 2016 9:37 AM

Rest in Peace, Ellis, and our deepest condolences to your family. We love ya. Thank you for all the great tunes.

A candle was lit by Christine Masterson on December 19, 2016 8:08 AM

A candle was lit by Rick Cooper on December 18, 2016 9:27 PM

Message from judi ryan

December 18, 2016 4:22 PM

rest in peace, ellis. we first heard you outside of ribco twenty some years ago. I was so excited to hear 'an old Chicago blues black man' singing! when we reached the stage it was YOU! we have followed you ever since and will miss your music, your voice, the harmonica, the guitar, the story telling. you made RME what it is and you will be sorely missed. may God bless Kristi and your family in this difficult time. there will never be another wonderful person like you, whether as the ellis kell band or the whoozads, you were the best. thanks for everything you gave to everyone. the music will live on, as you will in our hearts.

A candle was lit by judi ryan on December 18, 2016 4:12 PM

A candle was lit by Steve & Nancy South on December 18, 2016 3:34 PM

A candle was lit by Steve & Margaret White on December 18, 2016 11:11 AM

Expression of Sympathy

A DIGNITY IN WHITE PEDESTAL ARRANGEMENT was sent on December 18, 2016

Thank you our good friend "Mr. Ellis" for everything you have done for everybody. With deepest sympathy Steve & Margaret White

Message from Steve White

December 18, 2016 10:53 AM

For his charitable work and the human values this great, kind, generous, charitable, honorable icon represents, Ellis Kell must always be remembered and never forgotten by this generation and many generations to come. With Kristi and Ali's permission it is only fitting a permanent memorial(s) tribute be established in one or more of the Quad Cities honoring Ellis Kell. Numerous possibilities exist: 1. rename LeClaire Park "ELLIS KELL MEMORIAL PARK", 2. name the LeClaire Park bandshell "The ELLIS KELL MEMORIAL BAND SHELL" with an attached commemorative plaque, 3. rename a well known street "ELLIS KELL BLVD,/AVE./PARKWAY, etc 4. a life size sculpture of "MR. ELLIS" playing his guitar appropriately placed in a highly visible location such as a park, 5. a life size Ellis Kell picture displayed in the RME lobby, 6. an Ellis Kell guitar permanently displayed in the RME museum, 7. the RME recording studio named "THE RME ELLIS KELL RECORDING STUDIO". After having read every 'Go Fund Me" comment it is crystal clear every person leaving a comment feels personally indebted to "Mr. Ellis" in addition to feeling the entire Quad Cities community is indebted to Ellis Kell. I am personally indebted to my friend Ellis for the 30 years of help he gave me promoting concerts in the Quad Cities and Des Moines. When there was hard work to be done Ellis Kell was always the first to arrive and the last to leave. "Mr. Ellis", thank you so much for everything you have done for so many people.

A candle was lit by Sarena Whitmer on December 17, 2016 8:05 PM

A candle was lit by Debbie Brooks & family on December 17, 2016 5:08 PM

Message from Jeanne Gardner

December 17, 2016 7:17 AM

Prayers to you, family of Ellis Kell. I went to Rocky with him and
we knew how talented he was way back then. He was also a decent artist and a prince of a human being. He will be missed greatly. May the Lord hold you all in the palm of His hand.

A candle was lit by Jeanne Gardner Smith on December 17, 2016 7:09 AM

A candle was lit by Lynn Dietz on December 16, 2016 9:09 PM

Message from Lynn Dietz

December 16, 2016 9:07 PM

Rest in peace Ellis. We have been friends for a very long time. Many many good times together. You will be missed my friend.