Ellis Jessel Death, Obituary 4th-grade student at Orchard Lane Elementary School died after boating accident – The New Berlin community is united in grief as it mourns the loss of 9-year-old Ellis Jessel, a cherished 4th grader at Orchard Lane Elementary School who died in a boating accident on Little Muskego Lake this past weekend. The news of Ellis’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through families, teachers, and classmates who are struggling to process the loss of such a vibrant and promising young child.
Ellis was a shining light at Orchard Lane Elementary. Teachers describe him as a joyful and eager learner, particularly drawn to science and reading. His kindness and generous spirit made him a friend to many, and his enthusiasm in the classroom inspired those around him. One teacher reflected, “Ellis made everyone feel included and valued. He was respectful and curious — a truly special student who will be deeply missed.”
Outside of school, Ellis loved animals and was known for his warm and friendly nature. He was a child who found joy in exploring the world around him, and his family’s outing on Little Muskego Lake was intended to be a happy day filled with family bonding and outdoor fun.
Tragically, the day ended in disaster. While the full circumstances of the boating accident are still being investigated by authorities, the community’s focus remains on supporting the Jessel family and each other through this time of profound sorrow.
Orchard Lane Elementary has responded by providing grief counseling and emotional support to students and staff, recognizing how difficult it can be for young children to understand and cope with such a sudden loss. The school is planning commemorative activities and gatherings to honor Ellis’s memory and allow the community to grieve together.
Neighbors, families, and local organizations have come forward to offer comfort and assistance to the Jessel family, exemplifying the strong sense of community in New Berlin. The collective support is a testament to how deeply Ellis touched the lives of those around him.
Though Ellis’s time on earth was tragically short, his bright smile, boundless curiosity, and loving heart left a lasting impression. His memory will live on through the stories shared by friends and family, and through the compassion and unity his loss has inspired in the community.
