Michele Renee McNelis

Michele Renee (Pasek) McNelis, 48, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Kansas University Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

Michele was born September 29, 1977 in Russell. She was the daughter of Ernest E. and Ronda K. (Stickney) Pasek. She grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the Class of 95. She then attended the North Central Technical School in Hays, Kansas.

Michele was united in marriage to Patrick McNelis on August 1, 2009 in Corcoran, Minnesota. They made their home in Russell except when he was working out of town and Michele would travel with him. Patrick preceded her in death on March 7, 2022.

Michele was a homemaker for her family. When she was younger, she worked at Southwind Bank and the Russell Regional Hospital. She was a homebody that was always available to help out her family and friends. She enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and trying to take her cat for walks. Her latest excitement was learning she had a granddaughter on the way.

Michele’s surviving family include her daughter, Lainey Krayca (Stephen Larocque) of Russell, Kansas; mother, Ronda Pasek of Russell, Kansas; granddaughter on the way; and cat, Mr. Marshmellow. She was preceded in death by her father and husband.

A Celebration of Michele’s Life will be held at a later date. The family has chosen cremation. Condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.