On July 30, 2015, we lost our son, our brother, our uncle, partner and best friend, Michael Ellison. His death was unexpected but so very quick and painless and for that we are eternally grateful.

A Memorial Service/Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church in Rapid City. Luncheon to follow. Michael would be pleased to see everyone in bright colors and bow ties. In lieu of flowers memorials are asked to benefit the Black Hills Children’s Home Society. Osheim & Schmidt of Rapid City is entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.osheimschmidt.com.  (Please search Michael Ellison).

As a person of faith Michael believed that those called by their Creator join in the Communion of Saints and continue to pray for us and support us, even in death. He will always be there for those he loved and cared for. Thankful for his love and life are his parents, John and Annette Ellison, Rapid City; his partner of 29 years, Ben Humphrey, Los Angeles; brother Patrick Ellison and sister-in-law Angie, Dell Rapids; sister Kelli McDonald and brother-in-law Scott, Scarborough, ME; niece Jordan Faubion and her husband Chris, Rapid City; niece Lauren McDonald, Scarborough, ME; niece Hutton Ellison, Dell Rapids; and nephew Griffin Ellison, Dell Rapids; his best friend Diane (Petry) Rutstein, Rapid City; his canine companion, Ally, numerous cousins and many, many friends.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Timothy James Ellison, paternal grandparents Leo and Luella Ellison, maternal grandparents Bernice and Slick Morrill, and his beloved dog Nikki.