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Daniel (Dan) Ely, 84, finished his full and successful life June 26, 2008 at his home on Nettles Island, FL with his devoted and beloved wife, Betty, at his side. Dan was born September 15, 1923 in Chicago, IL to George and Josephine Ely. He is survived by wife Betty; step-daughter Terry Dean and husband John of Houston, TX. Six children from his marriage with Katy Lou McIntosh: David Ely, Todd Ely and wife, Terry, Melissa Ely Martinez and husband, Louis, all of Albuquerque, Erin Ely and Doug Bielefeldt of Eugene OR; Therese Ely-Schmitter and husband, Dan of Seattle, WA, and Laura Ely of San Francisco, CA; 12 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and sister Joanne McIntosh of San Jose, CA and cousin Stan Reinisch of Chicago, IL. Private services were held in Florida. Dan graduated from High School and the Sea Scouts in Chicago and moved to Albuquerque during the 1940s to attend UNM. While at UNM, he played football and served in the Navy ROTC and made many long-lasting friendships. He graduated and received his Navy commission and was stationed in the Pacific during WWII and remained in the Navy Reserve for many years after returning home. He soon found he enjoyed sales and made a career in automobile retailing that led to his operating the Dan Ely Buick GMC Honda auto dealership in Albuquerque. He had particular interest in the RV industry including manufacturing a line of pickup campers. He was active in both the New Mexico and National Automobile Dealers Associations and GMC Dealer Advisory Board, serving on the boards and on many committees. Also, during his time in Albuquerque, he was active in the community with the Republican Party, particularly the Dave Cargo for Governor Campaign as Chairman and Treasurer; and Co-Chair of the Governor's Inaugural Committee. He also was a member of the UNM Lobo Club where he served on committees and was especially supportive of Coach Bob King and the UNM Men's Basketball program. Dan was appointed to the Board of the New Mexico Springer Boys School. He continued these activities until he sold his business and semi retired to Florida. In Florida, he was active in his community on Nettles Island (an RV Condominium vacation community), elected to the Nettles Island HOA Board and served on the St. Lucie County Code Enforcement Board. He continued his sales career on a semi-retired basis in Condominium sales and tried to wear out his boat and fishing gear by fishing as much as possible. Just as in Albuquerque, Dan made many friends on Nettles Island. Our husband, father and friend will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. Correspondence may be sent to c/o Melissa Martinez at PO Box 45383, Rio Rancho, NM 87174
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