Pompano Beach, FL – Ron Jellis passed away on July 6, while vacationing with his family in Sanibel Island, Florida. Ron suffered a massive heart attack while he accompanied his wife Donna for a walk in the calm and peaceful waters of Sanibel.

Mr. Jellis was born August 4, 1941 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and little did the world know what kind of an impact he would end up leaving on everybody who was lucky enough to have met him. Ron, who was he? Son – Brother – Husband – Father – Grandfather – Great Grandfather. Words cannot convey nor do justice. Family man – Kind – Loving – Humorous – Whitty – Thoughtful – Generous Beyond Belief – Loyal – Dedicated – Knowledgeable – Helpful – Humble – Caring – Competitor – Compassionate. These words don’t scratch the surface of who he was. As a friend you knew you had one because once he met you there were no strangers. You became a part of his life. As a boss you never worked for him rather you worked with him. Everybody he met almost immediately became a better person. The lucky few created a special bond that could never be broken under any circumstances.

Mr. Jellis married his lifelong companion Donna at the age of 16 on February 15, 1958, Donna’s one and only boyfriend. He worked the car business as service manager and moved to Pompano Beach, Florida in 1964. Upon arrival there he took an interest in a sport that was just starting there. It was Harness Racing and he would change the lives of numerous people in the industry over the next 55 years. Blessed were we in the industry that he chose us for his enjoyment and competitiveness.

People he met never forgot it because he made everybody whose life he touched a better person just by knowing him. His last few years health-wise were tough but never once did you hear him complain. It was what can I do for you not what can you do for me. Love for family and friends were above and beyond.

Survivors include: his loving wife Donna, children; son Randy Jellis (wife Helene), daughters; Ronna Jellis Martino (husband Ray Martino),  and Roclyn Jellis Thomas. Grandchildren Casey Martino (husband Lenny Anzolone) and great grandson Parker Ron and great granddaughter Emersyn Rae; Zak Thomas and great granddaughters Kailyn and Kamryn Thomas, Derek Martino, Randi Jellis, Rachel Jellis, Dylan Martino (wife Crystal Martino) and great grandson Mason Martino, Daniel Martino and great granddaughter Ella Martino, Ronald Jellis, Justine Martino, Alexandria Thomas. Brother Terry and wife Nancy of South Dakota along with many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, two brothers and five sisters.

Sent here by God he is gone but will never be forgotten. Rest in peace our dear loyal friend. Memorial contributions may be made to The Lucky Horse Sanctuary BAKB 333 Las Olas Way Suite 3307 Fort Lauderdale FL 33301.

A celebration of life will be July 27 in the Pompano/ Ft. Lauderdale, Florida area. Time and venue will be updated as soon as possible. Attire will NOT be dark. Yellow or Tommy Bahama style Hawaiian prints would be amazing if you have them. Mr. Jellis would want everyone to be happy and celebrate his life