Michael S. Ellis

Michael Skaff Ellis, Sr., age 63, died peacefully at home on May 29, 2025, surrounded by his wife, Lynette, his sister, Kathy, and his children. 

Born on February 4, 1962, at Butterworth hospital in Grand Rapids, MI, Michael was the son of Kenneth and Frances Ellis.  A proud native of East Grand Rapids, he graduated as valedictorian of East Grand Rapids High School in 1980.  He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Princeton University in 1984 and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan in 1986.

After beginning his career at Steelcase in Grand Rapids, Michael joined his father in the family business in 1988, becoming the second-generation leader of Ellis Parking Company.  He brought innovative vision and principled leadership, steering the company’s growth while contributing to the revitalization of downtown Grand Rapids.  Michael was a great champion of the West Michigan community, and his influence extended well beyond the business itself; he was a tireless advocate for community development and played an instrumental role that would contribute to the growth of a dynamic, inviting, and vibrant city.

Michael had an extraordinary gift for forming genuine relationships.  He relished being downtown, connecting with business owners, community leaders, and passersby alike.  He knew everyone by name, showed a keen interest in their stories, and made every person he encountered feel valued and seen.  A long-time member of both the University Club and Kent Country Club, he spent many hours not only on the basketball and squash courts, on cardio equipment, or out on the golf course, but also forging friendships that would last a lifetime.  His presence was magnetic, his kindness unmistakable, and his impact on those around him immeasurable.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Michael’s passion for competition was matched only by his sportsmanship and his deep appreciation for the intricacies of every game he played.  At East Grand Rapids High School, he served as captain of both varsity tennis and basketball teams and was a three-time state champion in tennis—a remarkable achievement made even more impressive by the fact that he was entirely self-taught in all of his sports.  From the countless hours he spent perfecting his tennis skills in his youth, to coaching his children in nearly every sport they played, to enjoying rounds of golf with friends, Michael exemplified discipline, excellence, and joy in competition, and he inspired those around him to do the same.

Michael was also deeply devoted to philanthropy, giving generously his time, resources, and leadership, continuing his father’s legacy of civic involvement and service.  He made lasting contributions to numerous nonprofit organizations, healthcare institutions, educational foundations, and the arts.  He served as the Board Chair of the Grand Rapids Art Museum, a member of the Executive Committee of the Grand Rapids Symphony, an Ambassador on the Grand Valley State University Foundation, and sat on the Board of Trustees for the Corewell Health Foundation, among many others. 

At the heart of Michael’s life was his faith.  He was a devoted member of St. George Orthodox Church, where he served as President of the Parish Council and supported the church in numerous ways.

Of all his accomplishments, none meant more to Michael than his family.  Despite his many professional and community commitments, he was a consistent and supportive presence in the lives of his eight children, instilling in them a strong faith and unwavering values.  His attention, support, and love never faltered.  He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest legacy lies in the lives he touched with his love and guidance.

Michael will be remembered for his humility, generosity, integrity, and faith.  He was a gifted businessman, a steadfast community leader, a self-made athlete, and above all else, a family man.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Frances Ellis, and his aunt, Constance Ellis.  He is survived by his aunts, Diana Courie and Carolyn Skaff; his sisters, Katherine (Michael) Lloyd, Nancy (David) Kammeraad, and Mary Frances Ellis; his wife of 23 years, Lynette Ellis; his children, Michael (Jackie) Ellis, Jr., Matthew Ellis, Elizabeth (Adam) Rzepka, Natalie Ellis and Luke Furjanic; his stepsons, Dreyson, Brandon (Mandi), Bryce, and Kyler Byker; and his grandchildren, Maddie and Beau Ellis, Charlie and Elliott Rzepka, and Sylvia Byker, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 4, at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (2250 E. Paris Ave SE) from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and again from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.  A Trisagion Prayer Service, followed by eulogies, will begin at 6:00 p.m.  The funeral service will be held at St. Nicholas on Thursday, June 5, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. George Orthodox Church in honor of Michael’s enduring faith and legacy of service.

For those unable to attend, the funeral service will be livestreamed at the link below.

Mike Ellis Livestream

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