Robert "Bob" Leon Ellis

Robert Leon “Bob” Ellis, 86, of Maramec, was first and foremost a devoted husband, proud dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa—surrounded in life by a family so large and lively that it could fill a sanctuary and then some. He passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.

Bob was born August 30, 1939, in Maramec to Clifford and Mildred Ellis. He grew up alongside his brother, Earl (deceased), and his sister, Louella, learning early the values of faith, hard work, and looking out for others.

At just 17 years old, Bob joined the United States Navy on June 6, 1957. While serving his country, he married his high school sweetheart, Ruth Ann Creager of Maramec, on August 29, 1959. Their love story spanned 66½ years and was built on hard work, a shared commitment to family, and standing by each other through every season of life.

Life got really busy as they welcomed four children in the four years between December 1960 and December 1964. Bob showed his love by providing for his family, keeping his word, and doing whatever needed to be done for Bryan (deceased), Tina, Elaine, and Craig.

After his time in the Navy, Bob built a respected career as an air traffic controller, guiding countless flights safely through Oklahoma. He later served the community as a Pawnee County Commissioner, where his practical wisdom, fairness, and deep care for the people of Pawnee County left a lasting mark.

Their family grew to include Bryan’s wife, Teresa; Tina’s husband, Ralph; Elaine’s husband, Wes; and Craig’s wife, Danna. Bob’s legacy expanded joyfully with grandchildren Lauren & Jacob Sanders; Lee & Julie Whitten; Thomas Franklin; Jennifer & Ben Creech; Chelsea & Lee Swinny; Bobby & Gail Ellis; Jamie & Rodney Bryan; Ryan Whitten; Sarah & Andrew Robison; Nicholas & Trine Whitten; Kevin & Zoe Black; Luke & Jazi Baker; Jake Baker, Scout & Braiden Black and Cal & Paxton Baker.

He was further blessed with great-grandchildren Dax & Davis Sanders; Connor, Alex & Laura Whitten; Hailey, Neil & Cooper Creech; Henry, Oliver & Waverly Swinny; Ruston Ellis; Waylon & Dolly Bryan; Harrison & Brody Baker; and Iver & Banks Baker. Family gatherings were never quiet, always full, and exactly the way Bob liked them.

Bob will be remembered for his firm handshake, quick smile, steady presence, and the unmistakable pride he carried for Ruth Ann and the generations that followed. His life was measured not just in years, but in the people who call him Dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa.

A celebration of Bob’s well-lived life will be held at 10:00am on March 7, at First Baptist Church of Pawnee, with graveside services to follow at Highland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Hebron Lodge #215 AF & AM, 108 S Vine Ave, Cleveland, OK, 74020, or your favorite charity.