John M. Ellgas was born  on September 8, 1942, in Chicago, to Dorothy O'Malley and Marshall Ellgas who preceded him in death. He married Peggy Saal in 1992 and she survives.

John is a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving as an electrician on a submarine tender in Charleston, SC. After his discharge in 1964, he worked for We Energies for 41 years, starting as a cable splicer and then as a supervisor of underground construction in Milwaukee. He retired in 2004.

John met Peggy on a bicycle ride in Florida in March 1992; they married on September 4, 1992 in Peoria, IL. For the next 30 years they traveled and rode their bikes together in the U.S. and Europe. John had many hobbies and interests, including talking, woodworking, playing cards, studying, reading, mentoring and leading scripture studies.

John was a life-long, devout Catholic. His faith was central to his life and focus of his energy. He served many roles at St. Lucy, St. Paul the Apostle, and for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, finding much joy serving on committees. For 17 years he relished participating in the summer scripture series at the University of St. Mary's on the Lake in Mundelein, IL, where he developed many deep friendships. He is past chair of the Archdiocese Pastoral Committee. In 2009 he received a Certificate of Spiritual Mentoring from Cardinal Stritch University.

In addition to his wife, survivors include children Marshall Ellgas, Patrick Ellgas and Christine Gwozdz; grandchildren MacKenzie Gwozdz, Alex Kornfield and Sean Kornfield; nieces Erin and Julie Saal;  nephews Sean Mozal and Mike and Brian Chevalier; great-nieces Emma and Vivienne Chevalier and great-nephew Carter Chevalier. He is preceded in death by his sister, Mary Kay Mozal.

Service Details

His Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Durand Ave., on Thursday, March 31 ^st , at 5:00 p.m. Visitation will take place at the church that day from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Memorial Suggestions

In lieu flowers the family would appreciate memorials be sent to Casa Romero Renewal Center, 423 W. Bruce St. Milwaukee 53204.