James Nellis

James Scott Nellis, 83, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully at Midland Hospice House after a brief illness, while surrounded by family on March 27, 2015. Jim was born on July 7, 1931, in Topeka, Kansas. He was the son of Edwin Stanley and Gladys Scott Nellis.

Jim graduated from Topeka High School in 1949. He went on to attend the University of Kansas and graduated with a business degree in 1953. During his time at the University of Kansas, he was an active member and president of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and met the love of his life, Marilyn Kendall.

They married June 26, 1954, on a hot summer day in Concordia, Kansas. They began their life in Topeka where Jim joined his father as the 4th generation owner of the Nellis Insurance Agency. The agency was the oldest one in Topeka, and was established by Jim's great-grandfather, Daniel, in 1876. This sparked his passion for business and entrepreneurship. He was introduced to the franchise system and became an early franchisee for Pizza Hut, then opening their earliest locations across the Midwest. In addition to Pizza Hut, he was a franchisee for Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wendy's and Red Robin. He also opened his own restaurant, called Nellie's, in Jackson, Wyoming. During the final chapters of his professional career he occupied his time with commercial property, private equity and other types of investments.

Jackson, Wyoming was a second home for Jim. He fell in love with the entire valley at the age of 16, when he climbed to the peak of the Grand Teton. He and his new bride, Marilyn, even honeymooned there in 1954. He had businesses and a home there for over forty years. He loved the mountains and wildlife. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and Jackson was the perfect place for that.

Jim was involved with various organizations over the years. He was a charter member and past president of the Topeka Active 20/30 Club, a member of the Topeka High School Historical Society, Topeka Country Club, Central Congregational Church, and a lifetime member of the KU Alumni Association.

Enjoying time in Jackson, Wyoming, hunting and fishing with the guys, social outings with the Turnpike Set, time spent at Lakeview, holiday brunches on Dancaster Road, a nightly game of gin rummy with Marilyn and family get-togethers were the highlights of his life. He was a loyal husband, father, grandfather and friend and will be greatly missed by everyone who loved him.

Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marilyn, and his children; Cindy Stevens (Dave), Margie Brown (Larry), Kay Williams (Mike Gerrish) and Scott Nellis (Gina). He is also survived by ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 31st, 2015, at Central Congregational Church located at 1248 SW Buchanan in Topeka, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Topeka Boys and Girls Club, or the charity of your choice. Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting with arrangments.