James William Ellis, born December 30, 1946 to Carl and Raye McMahon Ellis in Junction City, Kansas, died peacefully in his home on December 29, 2024 after a short battle of cancer. He was 78.

Jim’s dad worked road construction while Jim was growing up so Jim attended many schools as a young boy. Finally settling in Hiawatha, Kansas where Jim graduated Hiawatha High School in 1966.

Jim was an amazing cabinet maker. He could build anything that was asked of him with such perfection. He worked for Flair-Fold where he was in charge of quality control. This allowed to travel to many states to showcase his beautiful skills. Before retirement Jim worked at Casey’s General Store and always enjoyed being able to visit with all of his regulars.

Jim’s favorite place to visit was Branson, whether he was with Kathy and Gary or sitting on the deck drinking coffee early in the morning with his favorite boys. He also loved riding the co-captain chair of his son-in-law’s boat. He loved going to Wautoma, Wisconsin and eating hot fresh Amish doughnuts with his wife, brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Life was never complete for Jim unless he was watching his grandkids play sports, sing, go to camps, swim in the lake or zipline from one of the tallest buildings. He loved it all. Then he got to enjoy great-grandchildren that he loved very much. And we can’t leave out his beloved Dottie, his dog that never left his side.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Raye, and his son David in 1993.

He is survived by his wife Deb of the home, daughter Joey (Jeff) May of Hiawatha, daughter Jessica (Mike) Chartier, also of Hiawatha. He is also survived by his ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, many cousins, and very close friends Jason and Jared Brown.

A from a favorite John Wayne moved and Jim’s favorite saying: “NO MORE WHISKEY. WE GO HOME.”

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha after 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Thursday. The family will meet with friends Friday evening, January 3 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Jim Ellis Memorial Fund has been established and sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com