WOODROW WILSON HIGH SCHOOL Alumni
PORTLAND, OREGON
MILITARY SPOTLIGHT
HAROLD RAY ELLMERS (TEACHER AND COACH) DECEASED
WWII US NAVY
Harold Ray Ellmers passed away May 16, 2017 at the age of 90. Hal was born Nov. 19, 1926 in Hurley, Mo., to Harry and Lillie Ellmers. He moved to Lakeview, Ore., in 1940 and later graduated from Jefferson High School in Portland in 1944, where he excelled in football and track. After graduating high school, he served in the U.S. Navy V-5 and V-12 during WWII until 1946. Hal received his Master's degree in education from Lewis and Clark College in 1949. He married the love of his life, Lois Clarke, in 1948. Hal was a math and physical education teacher and coached athletics in Portland schools, including Grant, Wilson, and Franklin High Schools. He also refereed high school basketball games and worked summers for United Parcel Service and Multnomah Athletic Club. He was an active member of Rose City Park Presbyterian Church, Central Optimist Club and Track and Field Officials of the State of Oregon. In his later years, he volunteered for many youth athletic programs, the Oregon Food Bank, and the Red Cross. He had a passion for football, basketball and track, and held the state record for the 880 for many years. He was known by many friends and students as "Hurryin' Hal".
Hal was a loving family man and made friends wherever he went. A celebration of life and reception was held Wednesday, May 24, 2017, at Rose City Park Presbyterian Church. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Hollywood Chapel. In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations to Oregon Food Bank, Community Transitional School, Rose City Park Presbyterian Church, or a charity of your choice would be very much appreciated by the family.