John R. McNellis, 84, of Paw Paw, passed away at his home, Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022. He was born Oct. 15, 1937, in Chicago, the son of John McNellis and Marie (Albart) McNellis.
Dick earned his master’s degree from Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo. He went to work as a chemist for many years in Kalamazoo. He then went on to work as a computer programmer for many years and a computer analyst. He had a close bond with his brother, James. The two enjoyed many hunting adventures from their childhood through their adult years. The brothers also enjoyed many fishing trips over the years. They were both members of the Michigan Steelhead – Salmon Fishermen’s Association, where Dick served as past president of the association. He was part of a weekly bowling league with his friends. He enjoyed traveling, some of his most memorable were to Ireland, and his favorite was to Alaska. In his later years, Dick found his enjoyment for cooking. He would say that cooking reminded him of working in the lab back in the days in Kalamazoo.
On May 5, 1999, he married Penelope Elaine (Simnick) McNellis, who preceded him in death Jan. 9, 2020.
John is survived by his son, Christopher McNellis; daughter, Tracy Smith-McNellis; and his brother, Bill (Joan) McNellis.
John was preceded in death by his brother, James McNellis; and his sister, Pat Tokeshi.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Family and friends are invited to visit Saturday, Aug. 27, beginning at 11 a.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, where a memorial service will be held at noon. There will be a time of food and refreshments at the funeral home following the service.Share a memory or sign the online tribute wall at: www.adamspawpaw.com
