In loving memory of

Ellis P. Mains
October 6, 1922 - May 13, 2017

A funeral service was held on Wednesday , June 17th, 2017, at 10:30 AM at Grace Church, Algona. Military honors for Ellis were conducted at East Lawn Cemetery, Algona, by the Haag-Turner American Legion Post # 90 and the VFW Post # 2541.

Ellis Perry Mains joined his Lord and Savior on May 13, 2017, at the age of 94. He was born October 6, 1922, in Menlo, son of Jonathan Henry and Iva Fern (James) Mains. Following high school graduation, Ellis attended auto mechanic school and worked as a mechanic in Guthrie Center. He entered the United States Marine Corps in 1942, and was deployed to Hawaii, Australia, Guadalcanal, Okinawa, and other locations. He received an honorable discharge in 1945.

Ellis was married to Evelyn Ruth Crapser on October 15, 1948, at First Baptist Church in Algona. They were married for 52 years and raised 7 children. In the 1950's, Ellis attended sales school and began a career in auto sales, which he enjoyed. Ellis liked meeting new people and could carry on a conversation with anyone who crossed his path. Ellis retired in 1995, but didn't slow down. He was an active member of First Baptist Church (now Grace Church), serving in many positions including deacon, trustee, and building committee chair; Algona Kiwanis Club, serving on the trustee board and as president; the Algona VFW, serving as quartermaster for 16 years and he was designated a lifetime member. Ellis also delivered Meals on Wheels for many years, once again giving him an opportunity to visit with people. In his spare time Ellis enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, and traveling throughout the United States.

Ellis was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Evelyn in 2001; two sons, Marc and Terry Mains; four brothers, Donald (Marion), Ralph, Wesley, and Edwin (Verledene) Mains; and a very special friend, Juanita Hanson.

He is survived by his daughter Ellen Mains of Algona; four sons, Charles (Deb) Mains of Urbandale, Dennis (Paula) Mains of Algona, Randy Mains of Superior, and Jimmy Mains of Algona; brother, Dale (Lucille) Mains of Algona; a daughter-in-law, DeeDee Mains of Algona; sisters-in-law, Bettey Mains and Jo An Mains Boehm; 14 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Fran Britz.

Ellis loved spending time with his family and friends and his death will leave a void in our lives. We will miss him very much.


Tributes

Mary (Haag) Hulsebus wrote on May 20, 2017:

"Ellis was such a fixture in the lives of the Haag children as we grew up in the First Baptist Church and he was a truly good friend to my father throughout his life. They enjoyed each other's company and always had a lot to "chat" about - may your memories of Ellis bring you peace and comfort in the days ahead - he will truly be missed by many people around the Algona area "

Doug and Judy wrote on May 17, 2017:

"We are so sorry for you loss. We meet Randy's Dad last summer at Randy's home. Had a very nice visit with him. He was a very pleasant man. I know he will be missed by his family and friends. "

Marilyn Napp wrote on May 15, 2017:

"I loved getting to know Ellis and visiting with him at David & Cristy's family gatherings."

Barb & Ken Vaske wrote on May 14, 2017:

"Dear Ellen, my sympathy to you. I know how dear your father was to you. Treasure all the love you have in your heart for him and all the love he has in his heart for you. Let us look forward to that time when death will be more. Jesus is coming. I know you are ready and waiting and surely your father was too! I sometimes envy those believers who have been called ahead of us, but our peace is in knowing God is going to see us through, too. Peace and prayers and love, Barb & Ken Vaske"

Sue Murphy wrote on May 14, 2017:

"Our sincere sympathy to the Mains family. Ellis was always so pleasant to visit with, he will be missed!"

Carl & Stephanie Napp wrote on May 13, 2017:

"My deepest sympathy to your family. My prayers go out to you during this time for strength and peace. God bless you! - Carl & Stephanie Napp - Joshua 1:9"

Ruth Brunsen wrote on May 13, 2017:

"Ellis was a good neighbor for last 42years. We worked at the VFW over the last years. May he rest in peace!!"

Frank &Carol Merrill. wrote on May 13, 2017:

"I had the opportunity to work with Ellis selling automobiles. He was definitely the leader in that industry. I have also had the privilege to share morning coffee with Ellis for years. You will never find a more pleasant, kind and friendly person. Proud to refer to him as a friend. Our prayers are with the family during this time. "

Coriene (Crapser) Tevis wrote on May 13, 2017:

"My sincerest sympathy is with all of you. I will never forget the times I spent at your place and your Dad and Mom always made me feel SO welcome. Also will never forget you children (know your all grownups now). Please keep in contact!! "