Martha Jane Ellis

Martha Jane Ellis (Bohnart), age 84, passed away peacefully in Denver, CO on May 16, 2025. She was known as ‘Marte’ to her friends and as ‘Nano’ to her grandchildren. Martha was born on July 21, 1940 in Wood River, NE to a large, loving family. She was a proud graduate of Wood River High School. Martha spent most of her life in Omaha, NE where she raised her children alongside her husband of 57 years, William Cornelius Ellis. In their later years, Martha and William split their time between Omaha and Scottsdale, AZ. Martha was a devout Catholic and member of Omaha's Christ the King and St. Robert’s Churches for many years, where she found solace and community. She was an avid tennis player and participated in United States Tennis Association (USTA) tournaments where her team received national recognition. An active member of her community, Martha volunteered with the Henry Doorley Zoo, the Salvation Army, and neighborhood organizations over the years. With her sharp wit, she loved lively conversation and cultivated many meaningful friendships throughout her life. Martha enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, shopping, and happy hours with friends. She brought elegance and charm into every room she entered, and she did so on her own terms. Martha’s warmth, grace, and poise will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege to know her. She is preceded in death by her husband, William Cornelius Ellis; her daughter, Elizabeth (Zibby) Ellis; her parents, Eunice (Collins) and George Bohnart; and siblings, Andrew Bohnart, Walter (Boney) Bohnart, Georgianne (Bohnart) Husen, Robert Bohnart, and Donny Bohnart. Martha is survived by her brothers, Ed and Gary Bohnart; children, William C. Ellis, Scott E. (Anne) Ellis, and Lesley J. (Tony) Flores; six grandchildren, Taylor, Grace, Madison, Gabrielle, Morgan, and Ellis; several nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral services will take place at Horan & McConaty Funeral Service and Cremation in Centennial, CO on Friday, May 23, at 11 am. Those wishing to honor her life can make a donation in her name to the Salvation Army.