James R. Mellott

James Ray "Jim" Mellott, 87, passed away on December 19, 2025. He was born on September 17, 1938, to Doyle and Ila Mellott. He was raised in Superior, Nebraska, alongside his brother, Donn, and sister, Carol Jean. Jim had fond memories of his boyhood, especially helping with errands for his maternal grandparents and local residents. He particularly enjoyed assisting his Aunt June, experiences that helped shape his strong work ethic and kindness toward others.

Jim attended local schools and graduated from Superior High School in 1957. He took great pride in lettering in football, and during his senior year, he and Marcia Corman were crowned Homecoming King and Queen. Jim married Marcia on April 12, 1959, beginning a lifelong partnership.

Early in his career, Jim worked at several auto dealerships as a grease monkey, a job that taught him meticulous care for automobiles—something he practiced throughout his life. He later found employment with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as a construction inspector, a role that became his lifelong career until retirement. His work took him from Nebraska to Kansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, and ultimately to Loveland, Colorado. Jim was proud of his role inspecting dam construction projects and associated structures, particularly in Colorado, where his knowledge of dam operations was extensive. He retired in 1996 and remained in Loveland until his passing.

Jim and Marcia had two sons, Mike of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Rick of Carr, Colorado. Jim was a devoted and loving father who worked tirelessly to provide for his family, often holding two jobs and working all the overtime available to him.

Jim had a deep love for firearms, hunting, and western movies. He admired John Wayne as a role model and was fond of saying, “We’ll be there, the Good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise.” He took pride in being a licensed gun dealer for many years and passed his appreciation for firearms on to his sons. Jim also had a soft spot for animals and wildlife. Neighborhood dogs knew he always had a treat, and he faithfully fed local squirrels and birds. He took great pride in maintaining his large lawn and garden areas with careful attention.

During his early retirement years, Jim and Marcia enjoyed traveling together, including vacations to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and multiple trips to Branson, Missouri, with his in-laws, Jack and Bev Hull. They also traveled throughout Colorado and made many visits to see family, especially enjoying trips with their sons.

Jim passed away on December 19, 2025, from cardiac-related complications. His final year was challenging due to ongoing heart issues. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carol Jean; and her husband, Steve. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marcia; sons Mike and Rick; his brother, Donn; sister-in-law, Carol Ann; and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Evergreen Cemetery in Superior, Nebraska.