Nicholas W Phelps

Nicholas Phelps, a man who lived by the philosophy that the only way to do great work is to love what you do, passed away on February 3, 2025, in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Born, December 2, 1942, in Lake Forest , IL, to Paul and Betty (Wilson) Phelps, Nick's life was a story of bold decisions and daring escapades. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Michael and Chris Phelps. He married Karen Morris in 2004 and he was the love of her life.His knack for reading people not only brought him success professionally, but in his love life. Together, they had some adventures traveling to Europe and the Caribbean and also living in Oregon for 9 years. He leaves behind his wife Karen, his son Nick and his wife, Jill and only grandson, 12 year old Jack Phelps.

Nick had a long and successful career in hospitality leadership that spanned from the sunny shores of Hawaii, where he led marketing and sales for Hilton and Marriott hotels, to the waves of La Jolla, California, where he once owned a car dealership and a fleet of commercial fishing boats. Nick was the epitome of a man who lived his work. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to Missouri, where he started a Big Cat Habitat and Rescue because, why not? Life was too short for boring ventures and circus animals and movie cats needed a place to retire.

Nick's professional life was as varied as the locations he called home. From Canada's ski resorts near Montreal to Hawaii's tropical islands he managed vacation properties, timeshares, and hotels with the belief that to sell a dream, you first had to live it. "I can't sell it if I don't believe in it," his words of integrity and wisdom.

An adventurer at heart, Nick was a calculated risk-taker, a daredevil who flew planes and helicopters with the same ease as he rode his Harley. He taught his son to ride at the tender age of 15, passing on the thrill of the open road.  He was adventurous, intelligent, and endlessly interesting – a man who could captivate a room with stories and his quick wit.

Nicholas Phelps lived a life that many could only dream of, and he did it with grace. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, let us do so with the knowledge that his story was one of a life well-lived and a dream well-sold. Nick, you will be missed, but the memories and the laughter will live on forever.