Richard Ellsworth

Madison - Richard "Rick" L. Ellsworth, a prominent teaching professional on the Madison tennis scene for nearly four decades, died unexpectedly at UW Hospital on Monday, April 30, 2018, which was his 66th birthday.

He was born on April 30, 1952 to Richard and Muriel (Hoak) Ellsworth in Akron, Ohio. Rick grew up in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, where he graduated from high school, and was a high school tennis star. At The College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio, Rick received his bachelor's degree and was the top singles tennis player on his team. Rick went on to attend the University of Wisconsin - Madison, to pursue a PhD in organic chemistry. In 1979, he joined the staff at the John Powless Tennis Center, where he began a 39-year career as a tennis teaching pro and a tournament director.

Tennis was a limitless passion for Rick from early on. He also coached tennis for several years at Madison West High School. He served on numerous committees for the Midwest Section of the U.S. Tennis Association, and was a past president of the Greater Madison Tennis Association. He also served as director of tennis events for the Badger State Games.

On the tennis court, Rick, a lefthander, was swift and accomplished as a player, focused and technically excellent as a teacher.

Also a runner, Rick ran many Boston Marathons, and was proud to have run the Munich Marathon as well. He was an avid reader and sports fan.

Rick is survived by his siblings, Ann (George) Guins, Bill (Janet) Ellsworth, and Jane (William Conable) Ellsworth; four nieces and nephews; and one great-nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of his life hosted by his family will be from 10 am to 1 pm on Thursday, May 3, 2018 at the John Powless Tennis Center, 801 Struck Street, Madison. Casual attire is requested for this open house-style gathering.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the UW-Foundation-Department of Chemistry Fund, US Bank Lockbox 78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807 or online at www.supportuw.org in memory of Richard Ellsworth.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
608-238-3434