ELKHART-- Rex Marlin "Beeper" Ellis, 43, of Elkhart, died Tuesday morning (April 28, 2009) at his home.

He was born June 27, 1965, to Rex M. and Patricia (Haessig) Riefel in Vicksburg, Mich. On Oct. 15, 1994, he married Julie Marie Fahlbeck in Elkhart.

He is survived by his wife, Julie M. Ellis; one son, Keith Edward Ellis (Kirstie Hunsberger) of South Bend; grandchildren Keith Ellis Jr. and Kiara, at home; one stepdaughter, Karly Frame of Mishawaka; his parents, Patricia and Greg Crawford of Kalamazoo, Mich.; one sister, Mindy (Don) Towne and their children Lauren and Morgan DeHaan, all of Allegan, Mich.; grandparents Michael and Gertrude Haessig of Otsego, Mich.; Claudia (Jayson) Mowry, the mother of his son, Keith, of South Bend; and his in-laws, Michael and Maureen Durkin of Alabama.

Rex, or "Beeper" or "Beeps" as he was known to his family and friends, was a loving family man, husband and provider. He worked as a saw operator for many years, including Plastic Componets, American Hauler and Foam Technologies. He was raised in Plainwell, Mich., and attended school there. Rex was an avid University of Michigan fan and enjoyed bike riding, bow hunting and fishing.

Friends may call for one hour prior to the 2 p.m. Saturday memorial service to celebrate the life of Rex M. Ellis at the Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Pastor Shirley Fox with New Testament Bible Church will officiate. In keeping with the family's wishes, cremation will occur.

Memorials may be given to the Rex M. Ellis Memorial Fund in care of Billings Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.