Gordon Bernard Ellwood

Gordon Bernard Ellwood, age 71, of Portage, MI, passed away on Friday, December 9, 2022.

Gordon was born in Detroit, MI, on August 1, 1951, the son of the late Bernard Ellwood and Rita (Mailloux) Ellwood. He graduated from South Lake High School in St. Clair Shores. He served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, and received various medals for his service. He worked as a Postmaster in the United States Postal Service, retiring after over thirty years of service. He enjoyed sports and was an avid Detroit Red Wings fan. He had a great sense of humor and always kept those who knew him on their toes. He was a “professional mover” with help from his best friend Ken Borowiak spanning several years and locations. He loved gardening with a deep knowledge of plants and enjoyed landscaping and creating beautiful floral arrangements. He loved the outdoors. The woods and the ocean and lake were his favorites. He loved snacking on chips and salsa. He liked to have fun and create fun where he could. He especially loved being “other grandpa” to Vincent and Rowan.

He was united in marriage with Toni Dawn (Hubbard) Ellwood on May 6, 1986. Toni preceded him in death on October 24, 2011. Gordon is survived by his children, Jillian (Ben Kochenderfer) Ellwood, Gordie Ellwood, Nicole O’Hara, and Mandy (Chris) Ritter; grandchildren, Alex (Audrey), Olivia (Bernardo Simoes), Sophie, Matthew, Teague, Vincent, and Rowan; great-grandchildren, Anderson, Asher, Luca, and Ari; brothers, John (Nancy), Jim (Karen), Steve (Andrea), and Bob (Jenny); sister-in-law, Lee Ann; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Rita Ellwood; wife, Toni Ellwood; daughter, Kenzie Ellwood; and brothers, Bill, Ken, and Thomas.

Cremation has taken place and in honor of his wishes no service is planned. Memorial contributions may be given in Gordon’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements were entrusted to Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. Please visit https://www.langelands.com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and leave messages for the family.