Ellis E. Monk, a pioneer in the Christian products industry and founder of churchware company Artistic Manufacturing Corp., died Feb. 23. He was 83.

"I've lost not only my father, but my best friend and my mentor," said Tom Monk, son and Artistic president, who started coming to work with his father when he was just 5 years old.

"He was a very remarkable man," said Sandie Larpenter, office manager at Artistic, who said that Monk came in to work every day even in his 80s. "Most everybody that knew him loved him. The workers at Artistic were very devoted to him and he to them. He always strived for quality and service, and we hope we can continue it. He will be missed."

In 1958, Monk was working at a Des Moines company that specialized in brass and copper giftware. His church, Grant Park Christian Church, asked if he could make a cross and candlesticks for its sanctuary. In fulfilling the request, he helped the company move into the church supplies business.

Seven years later, he and his wife bought the company, naming it Artistic Manufacturing Corporation, and deciding to manufacture only churchware. In 1968, Artistic moved to its current site in Altoona, Iowa.

Additionally, in 1962, he designed the Broadman communionware line for Southern Baptist churches and produced it for more than 40 years until production was moved to China.

A former board member of CBA, Monk served on several other boards, including the Shriner's Children Hospital in Minneapolis and the Bright Foundation, which benefits the east side of Des Moines.

Monk is survived by his wife, Jerry; sons Tom and Randy; daughter Dee Westphal and son-in-law Alan; a brother, Corlys; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Monk was preceded in death by daughter Terry. Funeral services were held Feb. 26 at Grant Park Christian Church.

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