Ellie A. Cox, 76, of Darby, passed away at his home on April 20, 2001. He was born on December 8, 1924 to Nelson Levi Cox and Nellie Hampton Cox of Shelley, Idaho.
Ellie served in the Army during World War II in the Pacific. After returning, he married Violet Stoddard on April 1, 1947, in LaGrande, Oregon. They farmed in Grandview, Washington for three years, then moved to Jamestown, Idaho where Ellie purchased his father's ranch. There, he raised cattle in Wolverine Canyon and on the farm in Jamestown. They then moved to Missoula, Montana where they ran a motel for a couple of years. Ellie sold the family homestead in Idaho at Jamestown and Wolverine, returning to Darby in 1968. They resided for 33 years in the West Fork Valley.
During 54 years of marriage, Ellie provided for his family by means of ranching, mining and dealing in real estate. Ellie loved being with his family and friends spinning yarns, reciting poetry and telling tales of the old days. He enjoyed sitting in his living room looking out his front window at the beautiful view. In fact, he loved it so much he would not allow Violet to hang curtains.
Ellie is survived by his wife, Violet; their six children and spouses and families [names removed for privacy]; sister Beatrice Carlson; and brothers Vern and Dan Cox.
He was preceded in death by his sister Blanche Poole; brothers Wylie, Leon, Adrian and Jay Cox; and beloved granddaughter Kayla Jo Cox.
A service was held on April 25, 2001 at the Darby Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Private family urn placement will take place at a later date. Arrangements with Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton.
ref: The Missoulian (MT) April 23, 2001