Paul J. Nance
Paul J. Nance (89) passed away January 12, 2015, with pneumonia complications. Paul was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Colleen and daughter-in-law Jill Nance. He is survived by sons Mark, (wife Janey Depew) and James, grandchildren Cyndi Denham (husband Joe Denham), Jeni Nance, Sara Nance, Great Grandchildren Joseph Denham and Shelbi Slater, sister-in-law Joan Young, daughter-in-law Judy Wood, many nieces and nephews and family friend and caregiver Connie Brown.
After discharge from the Army in 1946 and a degree from University of Missouri, KC, he worked with the Corp of Engineers and Vendo and started a 31 year career with Aramco in Saudi Arabia in 1952. His last two most significant positions were Manager of Organization and Industrial Engineering (O & I E) and Director of Employee Relations Policy and Planning. He embraced the Saudi culture and while working on a special project to expand the Oil Exhibit Center in Dhahran decided to develop his own museum as he retired in 1983. He met with Dr Masry- Director of Antiquities for proper approval to take a full traditional Bedouin tent and cultural items to start The Nance Museum to promote Middle East cultural understanding in the United States. His son James photographed a complete collection of David Roberts prints from the technical library to be included in exhibits. Although the museum was built in a modest building on the family farm near Lone Jack, Missouri there were extensive efforts to reach many others through outreach programs in schools, libraries and museums. He felt it was as important to promote Middle East Cultural understanding in the Midwest as it is in the high profile cities. He donated the entire collection to The University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Missouri in 2003.
A special thanks to Dr Amber Clifford and Dr John Sheets for the many years they supported the museum "projects" (dealing with his enthusiasm and unique drive) and Joy Mistele, Dr Nelson, Dr Patton, Dr Podolefsky, and so many others at the university. He promoted Saudi Arabia Day on campus annually each October.
Paul appreciated so much the recent recognition in 2014 at The Nelson-Atkins Museum in his home city of Kansas City when he was recognized for his efforts during the "Roads of Arabia" exhibit opening at the museum. He also appreciated so very much the warm long term friendships with many Saudis and several Saudi families including the Alturkis and the Nawwabs.
He proudly displayed his Honorary Doctorate Degree, the Key to The City of Dallas, recognition by the International group in the Shawnee Mission School District, recognition by George HW Bush as one of his Thousand Points of Light and a copy of letters he exchanged with General Schwarzkopf during Desert Storm. Thank You to Aramco and ASC Public Affairs for their support. Thank You to the Plano Presbyterian Hospital, Vitas Hospice and the employees of his Assisted Living residence Prestonwood Court, Plano, TX.
Paul's dream was to someday have the extensive contents of the collection displayed in a permanent building either in his home city of Kansas City or at the University for continuing promotion of education and understanding of different cultures. Contributions to this effort may be made to the University of Central Missouri, Smiser Alumni Bldg., Nance Museum, Warrensburg, Missouri 64093.
Our parents left so much for us and so many others to be grateful for as they lived and taught us Tolerance, Respect, Kindness and a never ending drive for understanding.
Service will be held Saturday 1/31/15 at 11:00 AM at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 7001 Trail Lake Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76133. You may contact family thru pauljnance@att.net.
Related articles:
