Jason Michael Ellinger, 43, formerly of Celina, passed away unexpectedly on March 27, 2023, in Columbus, Ohio.

He was born on Nov. 6, 1979, to Wally Ellinger, Celina, and Linda Ellinger, Columbus, who survive. On Sept. 1, 2018, he married Amy Baucher, formerly of Celina, who survives in Columbus.

Other survivors include a sister, Kendra Ellinger (Mark) Scott, Monroe; father-in-law, Wayne Baucher, Celina; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Deceased are mother-in-law, Peggy Baucher, and grandparents, Gene and Nancy Ellinger, and Olen and Helen Boise.

Jason was a 1998 honors graduate of Celina High School, where he played football. He graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the prestigious Ohio State University Fisher College of Business. In Columbus, Jason worked as a financial advisor at Huntington National Bank, Heartland Bank and Edward Jones. Jason received numerous awards for his work. He studied the markets and scoured national and world news daily to advance his clients' interests. Many of his clients became close friends. Though very successful, Jason was not pretentious, preferring to wear flip-flops and t-shirts with humorous messaging whenever he could. He loved dogs, which he helped rescue from shelters and make into spoiled pets. He donated to various charitable organizations, including those associated with animal rescue and human trafficking. Civil and human rights were of particular concern to Jason and he did not shy away from discussing such matters. He volunteered with several charitable organizations in the Columbus area.

He was sarcastic and fun, known for his acerbic wit, but also very kind and sensitive. He had a quick and genuine smile, and loved his family and friends immensely. As the oldest grandchild in the family, Jason was protective of his younger cousins, and especially protective of his little sister. Jason could talk to anyone and frequently did. In addition to offering free financial advice, he enjoyed watching and talking about sports, especially the OSU Buckeyes, Chicago Bears and Cincinnati Reds. He will be missed and remain forever in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him.

An open-door memorial celebrating Jason's life will be held Sunday, April 23, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Celina Moose Lodge; a brief service will be held at 3 p.m. followed by family and friends sharing their memories of Jason. Dress will be casual.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jason's name to Family Crisis Network, 117 W. Fayette St., Celina, Ohio, and the Animal Protection League of Mercer County, 663 Celina Road, St. Marys, Ohio.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at lehmandzendzelfh.com.