Kenneth E. Nellis

Ken Nellis died unexpectedly at OHSU May 13, 2021, following postoperative complications from an aortic dissection he suffered April 25, 2021; he was 57 years old. Ken was born in Vancouver June 13, 1963, living most of his life in Clark County, WA. He moved to Milwaukie, OR, with his fiancée Sandy Winstead last year. Ken and Sandy made a lifelong commitment to each other four years ago. He was the beloved son of Judy Sutton Morrison and Randy Nellis. He graduated from Fort Vancouver High School in 1981 where he was a three-sport athlete. He went on to play football at Walla Walla Community College. In all sports/games Ken was very competitive, playing to win. He was known as one of the best pool players in Clark County, winning multiple individual and team tournaments. The Nellis Team of brothers and Dad were the team to beat when it came to the Northwest Regional Pool tournament at Chinook Winds. For five years they were champions. He enjoyed outdoor sports of deer hunting and salmon fishing with his dad, uncles, and friends; he scheduled his vacation every year around deer season. It was the camaraderie of deer camp he loved which included playing cards, good food and getting away with just the guys. Ken's specialty was preparing a deep-fried turkey for the hunters. He was a shrewd player at pinochle, poker, blackjack and chess. Ken was an early entrepreneur when at the age of 15 he took over his grandmother's business, Nellis Nightcrawlers. He employed his brother Randy and neighborhood kids to pick worms, shipping them to northwest bait and tackle shops by the thousands. Ken was happiest being in a crowd, attending family get-togethers and community events including concerts in the gorge, Greek Festival, Crab Feeds, Sausage Fest, St. Paul Rodeo, and Mt. Angel October Fest. A season ticket holder for many years he loved the Portland Trail Blazers. His work ethic was strong as he valued perfect attendance, which he achieved over several years. As a younger adult Ken worked at Payless/Rite-Aid as a warehouseman. Most of his career was working in the supply-chain of various industries. Recently he was a driver/service provider with Performance Food Group. Ken was beloved by all who knew him. He had a huge warm smile as he entered a room. He gave generously to others, valuing his family and taking pride in finding the unique gift for each one at Christmas and birthdays. While some referred to him as el Grande, to his family he was the loving "Gentle Giant." Ken is survived by his fiancée, Sandy Winstead, Milwaukie, OR; his mother, Judy Morrison (Mike); his father, Randy Nellis (Ardis) both parents of Vancouver, WA; sister, Melissa McGlinn (Patrick), Richland, WA; brothers, Rick Graser (Debbie) Moses Lake, WA, Russ Graser (Teri), Randy Graser, Jon Nellis, Dustin Nellis (Jenna) all of Vancouver, WA; uncle, Norm Nellis (Carol), Vancouver WA. Ken was preceded in death by his uncles, Bud Nellis and Jim Nellis. A visitation is open for family and friends May 21,2021, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens for those wishing to pay their respects. A private graveside memorial and burial will be May 22, 2021, at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. A celebration of life on Ken's birthday will be held at his home in Milwaukie June 13, 2021. In lieu of flowers the family wishes donations to be given in Ken's honor to OHSU Foundation at OHSUFoundation.org.

Kenneth E. Nellis

June 13, 1963 - May 13, 2021