Sound the Drum: Pete and Betty Ellison fundraiser

 Pete Ellison was  born April 9th ,1961 in Burbank California to Mike and Betty  Ellison; and brother to Daniel.  Even though Pete was an introvert, his natural skills with drums and percussion; and his love of performance are what brought him out of his shell. He worked for Disneyland as a performer in the late 70's and early 80's; and was part of the parade show and Disneyland's 25th Anniversary celebration.  

It was his showmanship standards helped him found the Black Knights Drum Corp  in the early 1980's .Pete later shared the responsibilities with assistant director Russell Kuingman. Responsibilities also fell on the shoulders of Debbie Keith  whose  contribution to the cause was vast to say the least. The Black Knights though could not have been what it became without the immense support and dedication by Pete's mother Betty  Ellison. 

Betty was on the board of directors; she was responsible for getting the instruments from Remo Drums, arranging the costumes, and acting as a chaperone for the Color Guard. Betty passed away in 2018; she was a loving mother figure to all. 

The Black Knights travelled all over the country and Canada to compete. Their hard work translated to them winning many competitions against some of the best in the country. In 1990 the Mayor of Burbank named the Black Knights the musical ambassadors of the city. 

In 2004, Pete founded One World Rhythm; their mission was to create awesome, spontaneous and exciting music making experiences for schools and private events. They achieved their goal by placing drums, percussion and other melodic instruments into the hands of  guests and assist them in developing their finding musical experience. 

Through all of Pete Ellison's endeavors the one constant that remained  was the impact that  he had on  so many people . His contributions to the arts and to the community was immense. 

Pete Ellison passed away March 2nd 2021. He would have  been 60 years old.

I am Justin Caldwell, cousin to Pete and nephew to Betty. Both played an essential role in my life. I feel it's my duty to make sure that they have a final resting place together. Betty was cremated in 2018 and her remains have yet to be buried. I would like to bury Pete and Betty together at Forest Lawn Glendale. Forest Lawn Glendale is the burial site for Pete's brother and grandmother.  The funds will secure two plots in the WeeKirk section plus the Endowment Care fees. Cremation costs for Pete was already handled by myself and my sister. Thank you for your generosity.