John David Ellingson passed away unexpectedly on March 1, 2016, in Ann Arbor, Mich., at the age of 77. He is survived by his wife Carolyn Ellingson, daughters Ann Ellingson Lay and Catherine Johnson, and sister Carol (Ellingson) Albrecht ’53. He is preceded in death by his brother Robert Ellingson.

John was born on Oct. 19, 1938, in Albert Lea, Minn., to John Ellingson and Sarah Jerdee. He graduated from Albert Lea Senior High School and continued on to earn a Bachelor's Degree from Luther College, a Master's Degree in History from the University of Michigan, a Master's Degree in Divinity from Trinity International University, a Master's Degree in Library Science from the University of Wisconsin, and did coursework towards a Ph.D. in History at Case Western Reserve University. He also studied theology and undertook initial training to go into the ministry at Concordia Theological Seminary.

John served in the United States Army from 1962-1965 and was honorably discharged in 1965. During his lifetime he was a library director at Concordia College in Ann Arbor, Mich., managed his family's farm in Britton, Mich., and worked in Engineering Services at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.

John was an avid gardener and farmer who was very passionate about learning and reading in a variety of subjects, as well as music. He was a member of St. Joseph Church in Dexter, Mich., and a man of deep faith. John was a dedicated volunteer in spiritual care at St. Joseph Hospital, St. Joseph Village, the No One Dies Alone program at St. Mary Mercy Hospital, and Providence Hospital.

The Mass of Christian Burial was prayed at the St. Joseph Village Church, 3430 Dover St., Dexter, on March 4, 2016. Interment followed at the church cemetery. Memorial donations will be donated to the No One Dies Alone visitation program, which John volunteered with, and the Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice. The family would like to thank the dedicated hospital and spiritual care staff at the University of Michigan Emergency Department and Cardiovascular Center for their exceptional care and support. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Mich.