John R. McNellis

John R. McNellis, 84, of Paw Paw, passed away at his home Thursday, January 13, 2022. 

He was born October 15, 1937 in Chicago, the son of John McNellis and Marie (Albart) McNellis.

Dick earned his Master's degree from Western Michigan University. 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 January 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, August 27, 2022 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, where a memorial service commence at 12:00 p.m. There will be a time of food and refreshments at the funeral home following services. 

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