Kenneth Ellwood

Kenneth Duane Ellwood, 73, of Springfield, Missouri, arrived safely in the arms of Jesus on December 28, 2021, surrounded by those who loved him after a long courageous battle from complications of COVID.

Ken was born October 11, 1948, in Topeka, Kansas, to Jack & Georgette (Boggs) Ellwood. After graduating from Glendale High School in 1967, he attended Southwest Missouri State prior to enlisting in the Navy and proudly serving in Vietnam.

He married the love-of-his-life, Susan (Rodreick) Ellwood on December 27, 1969, at Immaculate Conception Church in Springfield, Missouri. He owned Spring Valley Natural Foods for 35 years.

Ken retired in 2016 to spend more time on his lifelong passion of fast cars. He lived out his last years driving cars for 166 Auto Auction.

His adventures included traveling with his wife, NASCAR, fishing at his cabin and creating masterpieces in his woodworking shop. Above all else, Ken was a servant. He proudly served his Lord and Savior through daily Mass, his Country in Vietnam, and his community through Spring Valley.

Ken was preceded by his parents, Jack & Georgette Ellwood; his brother, Steve Ellwood; brother-in-law, Michael Rodreick; and father-in-law, Clyde Rodreick.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Susan Ellwood; his sister, Pam (Jim) Starks; his two children, Jennifer (Josh) Wellborn, Kim (Kris) Drees; his nine grandchildren, Isaac, Hannah, Symon, Samuel, Lily, Liza, Bella, Stella, and Lydia; his mother-in-law, Darlene Rodreick; brother-in-law, Thomas Rodreick; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Graveside Service with Full Military Honors will be held Thursday, December 30, 2021, at 10:00 am in Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 S. Southwood Rd, Springfield, Missouri 65804. A Memorial Mass will follow at 11:00 am in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2200 W. Republic Rd., Springfield, Missouri with Msgr. Thomas Reidy, celebrant. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home in Springfield.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Ken's memory.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.