Ellis Eugene Cleaver, 83, passed away on August 29, 2025, after a life that was often heavy with burdens but also filled with resilience, service, and a quiet kind of love. Though he was a reserved man who sometimes struggled to show his feelings, his life was defined by steadfast devotion — to his country, his family, his community, and the passions that brought him peace.

He was born on June 19, 1942, in Longmont, Colorado and spent his early years in both Colorado and Kansas before moving to California at the age of sixteen. Ellis learned early on that life required endurance. He served his country with honor as a U.S Navy veteran, serving on the U.S.S. Kearsarge as Boilerman Third Class a role that instilled discipline, loyalty, and strength. Those qualities guided him long after his time in uniform, shaping the way he approached hardship and the way he cared for others.

He had a lifelong love of classic cars, but none was more special than the Volvo he inherited from his father. That car became more than just a machine — it was a symbol of connection, memory, and pride. Through countless hours of painstaking care, he kept it in pristine condition, a reflection not only of his craftsmanship but of his devotion to preserving something deeply meaningful. Every gleaming detail carried with it a piece of his story.

He extended his passion for automobiles into the community as a proud member of the Fortuna Redwood AutoXpo Committee, where he crafted countless one-of-a-kind trophies — each one a reflection of his creativity and dedication to celebrating classic cars and the people who loved them.

His service extended well beyond his love of cars. In 2018, he was recognized as the Fire Citizen of the Year by the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department — an honor that spoke to the countless quiet contributions he made to his community. He never sought recognition, but the award reflected what those who knew him already understood: he was a man who showed up, who gave of himself, and who made a difference.

Though he was not always able to speak his heart easily, his actions told the story of his love. He was the man who would quietly fix what was broken, who showed up when needed, who carried burdens for others even when his own load was heavy. His love was steady, practical, and enduring — found in the everyday acts that, over time, spoke louder than words.To his family, he was a protector and provider. To his community, he was a quiet helper, often working in the background but always dependable. To those who knew him well, he was a reminder that strength can be quiet, love can be unspoken, and legacy can live on in both people and in passions passed down.

Ellis is survived by his wife of 62 years, Doris Cleaver, daughter Carmen Glass (Brad), son Gregg Cleaver (Layla), grandchildren Henry Ellis and Kristen Glass, Sisters Janice Starika (Jim), Lesa Morris, brother Robert West and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his Father Ralph Cleaver, Mother Mabel Holberg, and his sister Cheryl West Atkins. Though we grieve his passing, we celebrate a life lived with resilience, service, and quiet devotion. His memory will live on in every life he touched, in the lessons he taught by example, and in the pristine shine of a Volvo that will forever carry his spirit.

A service honoring his life will be held on October 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the local VFW, Fortuna Redwood AutoXpo or the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department, so that his legacy of service and care may continue.