Robert Earl Ely, age 97 of Garrettsville passed away peacefully into eternal rest on Thursday Dec. 24, 2020 at his residence. He was born on April 18, 1923 in Nelson Twp, OH the son of the late Ernest Oliver Ely and Zonabelle (Dunn) Ely. Robert served his country for 4 years in the US Army during WWII and served in the 10th Mountain Division. While in the US Army, he met and married the love of his life, Pearl P. Maynard on Nov. 24, 1942, and they have enjoyed the last 75 years of marriage together until she passed away on March 17, 2018. He has lived his entire life in Garrettsville, and worked as a truck driver for CF (Consolidated Freightways) for over 30 years retiring in 1986. He and his wife Pearl were member of the Faith Evangelical Free Church in Nelson, OH for many years. After he retired, he transported the Amish around to there different jobs. Robert enjoyed reading, camping, and traveling to Florida, Mexico & Texas with his wife. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Pearl, 1 daughter: Phyllis Manks, and many brothers and sisters.

Robert is survived by: 1 daughter: Diana Spirko of Springfield, OH,;1 son: Jerry & Kay Ely of Garrettsville, OH; 5 grandchildren: Jon Dodge, Steve Dodge, Wayne Huston, Holly Hites, & Ryan Ely; 6 great grandchildren: Melody, Hines, Justin, Jacob, Kelsey, & Meaghan; and 1 great great granddaughter Anali Rae Grace.

Per Robert's wishes, cremation has taken place. Private graveside services will be held. He will be laid to rest beside his wife Pearl at Park Cemetery in Garrettsville with full military honors.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad Street, Newton Falls, OH 44444 (330)872-5440. Family and friends may view Robert's obituary online or to send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com