April 12, 1949 – October 17, 2021
James Dale “Jim” Kellam, 72, passed away at his home in Sheridan surrounded by his loving family on Sunday evening, October 17, 2021. Born on April 12, 1949 in Lebanon, Ind., he was the son of the late Carl M. “Todd” and Thelma Louise (Harrison) Kellam.
Jim was a 1967 graduate of Sheridan High School and earned an Associate’s Degree in Electronics from Ivy Tech. His attention to detail and strong work ethic served him well as a project manager with AT&T. He retired in 2017 after 22 years of dedicated service.
Jim proudly served his country in the National Guard.
Never one to let grass grow under his feet, Jim seemed as busy on days off as he was on his days on. He loved being out on the water. For years he kept a houseboat down at Dale Hollow Lake; he always looked forward to visiting and getting in some good fishing. He also loved to ski, and he played golf whenever he had the opportunity. Jim also enjoyed traveling; St. Thomas, St. Martin, Puerto Rico, Arizona, and Gatlinburg were a few of his favorite destinations. No trip was complete without a little antiquing.
Jim loved the Colts, even during the lean years, and was an avid NASCAR fan. Jeff Gordon was his driver; when Jeff retired, Jim seemed to lose interest in the activity. As with most people who grew up around Sheridan, Jim was a huge Blackhawks fan and supporter.
Jim also had a passion for cars. His pride and joy was a ’54 Ford that he lovingly and painstakingly restored. There would always be a soft spot in his heart for that old Ford, but his Corvette – that is what captured his soul. He was a member of Corvette Indy. He loved going to car shows and never tired of talking about his hobby. Later in life Jim found the perfect job: He became a driver for Mecum Auction Company. It was a perfect fit.
Jim led a very active life, but there was nothing like spending some quality time with his family, and that included his Great Danes. He loved following his kids’ activities and was thrilled to get to do it all over again as a grandparent.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Pamala “Pam” (Mynatt) Kellam. She and Jim were married on August 13, 1983. He is also survived by his sons, Brett Allen Kellam (Tera) of Tampa, Fla., and Todd Dean Melahn (Valerie) of Sheridan; daughter, Cary Lois Marlow (Brandon) of Sheridan; five grandchildren, Halee Kellam, Taylar Melahn, Shawn Cox, Shane Cox, and Savannah Cox; brothers, Joe L. Kellam of Sheridan, and twin brother (of which Jim was the oldest), Jerry C. Kellam (Jeannie) of Bloomington; sister, Benita J. Watkins of Noblesville; his Great Danes, Remington and Blue; and his granddog, Stella.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Keith Watkins; and his sister-in-law, Jane Kellam.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at Kercheval Funeral Home, 306 E. 10th St., Sheridan. Jim will be laid to rest during a private graveside service at Crown View Cemetery in Sheridan. Pastor V.J. Stover will be officiating.
Condolences: kerchevalfuneralhome.com