Paul Nahon Obituary

Paul G. Nahon, III

Paul G. Nahon, III, passed away August 15, 2013, hiking the trails of the Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, pursuing his goal to climb all 14 thousand-foot peaks (14'ers) in Colorado. Paul was born September 17, 1992.

He is survived by his parents, Paul G. Nahon, Jr. and Angel Langston Nahon, brother John A. Nahon, Grandparents Paul G. Nahon, Sr. and Sharon Nahon, Marcia Bennett, Dr. James William Langston and Dr. Lisa Langston, Great Grandmother Helen May Langston, Aunts Laurie Lee Langston Allegretti, her husband Tony Allegretti and their children Anna and Danny, Suzanne Langston Kelly and her children Caitlyn and Brendan, Monica Destiny Gilardi, her husband Nicola and their children J.R. Reynolds, Nic Gilardi and Tomaso Gilardi, Michelle Nahon Moulder and her husband, T.J., Chloe Langston, Emily Langston, and Uncles Daniel Langston, Michael Langston, and James Langston, and numerous great uncles, great aunts, cousins, and friends.

Paul graduated from Glendale High School in 2011. He distinguished himself as an athlete, student, and leader. Paul won the Missouri State Tennis Championship in 2010 and 2011. He holds the record for the most tennis wins in Missouri history with an overall record of 117 wins and 7 losses. He won three conference and district championships, and medaled in state all four years. Paul was also inducted into the National High School Tennis All-American Foundation. He received sportsmanship awards at every level from the Cooper Tennis Complex to National level. Paul was also an original member of the Community Olympic Development Program.

While at Glendale, Paul participated in Peer Mediation, Student Council Cabinet where he served as media chair, Student Government, Boys Service Society, World Language Club, National Honor Society, and the Boys Tennis team. He was a Rose Banquet Honoree, ranked in the top 10 of his graduating class academically, and a Bright Flight Scholar, ranking in the top 3% academically in Missouri. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame for Citizenship Class of 2011. Paul also was recognized with a place on the Wall of Honor at Glendale.

Paul attended the University of Richmond where he continued to distinguish himself as an athlete, student and leader. He was a member of the Richmond Spiders Men's Tennis Team where he was the first Spider Men's Tennis Team member named to the All-Academic honors Team since 2005. He received recognition for having the highest GPA in his class both his freshman and sophomore years.

Paul had just transferred to Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado for the upcoming semester, where he planned to further his education in International Business and Economics with a focus on Environmental Studies.

Paul worked at Cooper Tennis Complex running tennis academies for competitive junior players, becoming a certified coach and giving private lessons. He held internships for United States Senator Roy Blunt in Washington, D.C., and BKD. He also interned with the Drury University men's Tennis Team assisting with team practices.

Paul was recently chosen to be one of 12 Ambassadors for Whole Foods. The purpose of the Ambassadorship was to develop funding for loans in third world countries - specifically to help women develop skills in business to better themselves and their communities.

Paul's favorite food was sushi, his favorite animal was a shark, and his favorite movie was Anchorman. He said if Hollywood ever made a movie about his life, he would want Will Ferrell to play his character. Paul's favorite holiday was Easter because of the Easter eggs filled with candy and money. He loved counting the coins he received in the eggs. Paul loved spending time with friends and family.

Paul was respected by peers and adults. He was respected for doing the right thing even if it was not the popular thing to do. Above all, Paul lived life to the fullest. His attitude to seek the greatest adventure that life had to offer will be remembered forever, and so will his belief that everyone has a purpose in life that we all strive towards. His presence will be deeply missed by his large family, and hundreds of friends from coast to coast.

A memorial service will be held at King's Way United Methodist Church, 2401 S. Lone Pine, Springfield, Missouri, 65804, at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2013.

A Memorial Fund has been established to provide athletic scholarships. Donations may be sent to:

Paul G. Nahon, III, Athletic Scholarship Fund

c/o Community Foundation of the Ozarks

425 East Trafficway

Springfield, MO 65801

Published by News-Leader on Aug. 18, 2013.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Nahon

Not sure what to say?





Hi Paul,Angel and all of the Nahon family,just wanted to let you know we have been thinking of you a lot during this holiday season.Just wishing you comfort and as much peace and joy as you can possibly have and find,throughout this holiday season without your wonderful son Paul with you!!!!You really are in our thoughts and prayers!!!Love you all ,the Lueckes!!!

December 29, 2013

Paul was a beacon of dedication, energy, and intelligence. My daughter Elizabeth (Saltzman) and I want to you to know we are still thinking about you during the holiday season. May his memory be a blessing to you and your family. HIs presence will be missed. (Elizabeth had just seen him in a Yoga class while she was home a week before he died.) Sending love your way.

Marla Marantz

December 28, 2013

Paul was a fantastic young man and a terrific friend to me for the entirety of my time that we played Missouri Valley. Although I often hated playing him, it was always a privilege to spend time with him off the court. He could always make me smile. My prayers go out to the Nahon family. Paul will never be forgotten.

Aaron Skinner

September 15, 2013

Mom, Carolyn Woodworth, and I just heard of this the other day from Buddy. Angel and Marcia, as well as the rest of your family you are in our thoughts and prayers. As losing a sister and mom losing a child as well, she knows there is no greater loss. He sounds like an amazing person, which is such a reflection on his family. We love you and words cannot describe how sorry we are for your loss.

Leigh Woodworth

September 12, 2013

Paul was an extraordinary young man. He possessed all the best - athletic, smart, good looks. I had the privilege of putting him on the tennis court many times in tournaments. A finer competitor and good sportsman I've never known. My thoughts and prayers are with you Nahons. He will forever be remembered by all of us.

Judy Dippold

September 4, 2013

Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers for your entire family are extended. Paul was a wonderful friend to our son Jake. He will be greatly missed. We are so sorry for your loss.

Jeff and Jackie Rogers

August 29, 2013

We just heard of Paul's tragic accident today from the Norman family in Wichita when we were discussing our upcoming trip to Colorado to hike Mt. Bierstadt (a different, but easier 14'er). Our son Corbin used to compete with Paul in tennis back when they were in the 12's at the USTA National level before Corbin switched to golf. My memories of Paul are that he was such a great kid and had outstanding competitiveness, manners, kindness and maturity at a very young age. He accomplished soooo much during his short lifetime. As avid hikers of 14'ers ourselves, my husband and I understand his passion for it and know that as with anything, the huge risk involved. Long's Peak is not one we have tried to tackle, but we understand Paul's drive to have been on the mountain and work toward his goal. We are so sorry for your loss of such a fine young man. He was an incredible athlete and will be remembered fondly and with respect by our family. May your faith stay strong and happy memories prevail at this time of sorrow.
With Love,
Kathy, Dan, Corbin & Melissa Mihelic
Wichita, Kansas

August 29, 2013

Paul was an incredible young man who gave passion, talent and quality to all that he did. He will be missed by a nationwide community who loved and admired him dearly.
Elizabeth Moulder

August 27, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. We will remember Paul as such an enjoyable tennis player and person.

Paul, Kari, Laura, and Emily Richardson

August 26, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to the entire Nahon family. Karen and I are deeply sorry for your loss. Paul Sr., I have never met a grandpa more committed to a grandson than you were to Paul III. It was inspiring how much you loved that young man. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Chuck Branch

August 26, 2013

Nahon Family, everyone is in my thoughts and prayers. May god hold you all closer to him and keep everyone safe. My deepest sympathies...

Cindy Owen

August 25, 2013

My very deepest sympathy to Paul, Angel, John and to all Paul,s extended family.

You are in my thoughts and prayers,
Barbara Fox

Barbara Fox

August 24, 2013

Dear Nahon Family, There are no words to express our sad feelings for your entire family at this time. Paul was a gift given to this world for a short time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Steve, Shari & Sam Wanicke

Shari Wanicke

August 24, 2013

Your family has been in my thoughts and prayers ever since I heard the news. God Bless

Beverly Flavin

August 24, 2013

I was just descending from the Keyhole when word filtered back that a hiker had fallen. The sadness, concern and then grief were palpable as the word spread from group to group. I am so sorry for your loss.

Michaela Kornblum

August 23, 2013

My heart breaks for the whole Nahon family. I had the pleasure of watching many Glendale matches and Paul was a bright light and joy to watch. I cannot imagine your pain but please know my thoughts are with you all.

Stephany Jackson-Powell

August 23, 2013

I am so very sorry for your loss, Angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. God Bless

Diane White (Archibald)

August 23, 2013

Paul, Angel, and John,
May God hold you in his arms until you can find the strength to go down this new road in life. The prayers of so many will sustain you through this extremely difficult time. I have been praying ever since I heard the news. I am so sorry for your loss!

Kay Stover

August 22, 2013

Paul will be missed by so many in the community. I did not know him well, but he was always such an inspiration to me on the tennis court. My deepest sympathy to all of his family and friends.

Carol Rollins

August 22, 2013

Paul Jr, Angel, John and the Nahon family. My heart goes out to all of you as I know how proud you were of Paul III. I had the privilege of meeting this wonderful young man and his brother, John. My deepest sympathy to the entire family.

Pat Quessenberry

August 22, 2013

Paul told us, concerning our son's efforts on the tennis court, that "it has to come from his heart." There was never any doubt about Paul's heart, and I thank him for the example. Thank you, Paul and Angel, for your gift to all of us. Be comforted.

Tom Mayer

August 22, 2013

A beautiful description of a beautiful life. We have no words to express our sorrow for your incredible loss!
May you seek comfort from Him who promises to be closest to the brokenhearted. With deep sympathy

Davey,Tennys Lia Sandgren

August 21, 2013

I would have been proud to call him friend if we had ever met. In June of 2002 when I was 55 years of age I climbed Longs Peak. I understand Paul's passion for climbing the 14'ers of Colorado. He was doing what he absolutely loved.

Next year I want my 17 year old grandson to climb Longs Peak with me. We will dedicate our climb to Paul. It's just a small thing but a way for me to show my support for his family and friends.

Paul, I'll look for you on the summit...

Phil Johnson

August 21, 2013

John, Angel, and Paul,

Our deepest sympathies and prayers are extended to all of you and your extended family during this very difficult time. Paul was uniquely gifted and a very special young man. He will truly be missed.

The Fournier Family

August 21, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss.

Karin Hedrick

August 20, 2013

Please accept our deepest sympathy. An incredible young person and inspiration to so many. His achievements, influence and impact will always be remembered in the many lives he touched in such a positive way.

Jennifer, Kyle & Van McClure

August 20, 2013

August 20, 2013

Paul,Angel,John,Paul Sr. and Sharon and Michelle,and all the rest of the family on Paul and Angel's sides of the family,my deepest sympathies and condolences to all of you.I can only imagine the pain and grief and loss you are feeling.I am lifting you up in thoughts and prayers and am only a phone call away at 562-243-3295.From all I have learned this past 4 or 5 days Paul the 3rd was quite an incredible,young man,athlete,citizen,friend,adventurer,
student,son,brother,grandson,cousin and a whole lot more.It seems to me he did more living in his 20 years than most due in a lifetime!!Wish we all had
more time on this earth to spend with him!!!As a believer I look forward to
meeting up with Paul,on the other side of this life,when my time on earth is done!!!I am so sorry!!Love to you all from the west coast!!!Karl Luecke

Karl Luecke

August 20, 2013

My heart and prayers go out to the Nahon family.

Whitney Frost

August 20, 2013

I was traversing the narrows on our descent as the helicopter was returning on Sunday for the recovery. That day was one of the most spectacular and tragic I'll ever face. if it is of any consolation at all, that place where he fell, that exact section of the mountain, was where I felt the most alive in my 43 full years, and I have lived a very rich life. Paul sounds like he was an extraordinary man who lived more in his few, short years, than most of us live in our lifetimes.

Robin Nickles

August 20, 2013

The joy of Paul's life will continue to shine through his family members.

Loretta Knutson

August 20, 2013

My heart goes out to the entire family. Your love and great memories will carry you through this loss.

Loretta Knutson

August 20, 2013

Angel, Paul, and John,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You are all in my constant thoughts and prayers.

Melissa Woycheese

August 20, 2013

My sympathy & care is extended to the entire Nahon family in this time of their loss. May God care for them until they can care for themselves.
Sue Tarvestad Coy.

August 19, 2013

Dear Friends, My heart breaks for you. Such loss is impossible to understand - the loss of this gentle, talented, bright, energetic young man - son, brother. I will pray for you, Paul, Angel and John, and the rest of your family and friends as you deal with this tragedy and continuing loss. Know that I grieve with you along with many others. You are so much in my thoughts and every prayer.

Susan Lynch (KHS)

August 19, 2013

Paul was such a great man. I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with your family.

Brooklyn Smith

August 19, 2013

My deepest sympathy to Paul and Angel and the entire circle of family and friends who were greatly privileged to have known this excellent young man. Although short, what a fantastic life he lived.

Sean Allison

August 19, 2013

Our sincerest sympathies to Paul, Angel and all the Nahon family. Many thoughts and prayers going out after your loss. Paul will be missed by so many.

Chris and Rendy Thompson

August 19, 2013

Angel and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Terre Redmon

August 19, 2013

In tragedies such as this no words can explain or make the pain feel any less. This exceptional young man walks with God. Rejoice in knowing that he lived life to the fullest and for such a young person he made such a great and wonderful impact on those that were blessed to know him...Prayers for the family. Bobbie L. Wright

August 19, 2013

Our deepest sympathies are extended to Paul and Angel, and the whole Nahon family. Our hearts are broken for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Jeff and Cindy Marsh

August 19, 2013

I would like to express my sincerest sympathy to Paul, Angel and the rest of the Nahon family during this difficult time. What an outstanding young man you raised and I hope you will be able to find peace.

Randy Funk

August 19, 2013

My sincere sympathy to the Nahon family. I was one of the hikers who witnessed the aftermath of Pauls fall. My friend Spencer and the others did an amazing job getting down to Paul. I did not know Paul personally but I sure will not forget his last moment in life.

Jason Plansky

August 19, 2013

Thinking of you all. Thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Amy Patton

August 19, 2013

You guys are in my thoughts and prayers constantly, I cannot imagine what you are going through. I love you guys so much! Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you forever!

Kenzi Hanson

August 19, 2013

Paul was a great person on and off the tennis court. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God give you strength and comfort.

Marissa Moment Brown

August 19, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Marie Murphree

August 19, 2013

Deepest sympathies to the Nahon family from the Barbo family.

Dana Barbo

August 19, 2013

My sincerest sympathy to the Nahon family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
William Tate

William Tate

August 19, 2013

I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for healing for your family.

Angie Holloman

August 19, 2013

My deepest sympathy at this time of sorrow. May God give you peace and strength and send you healing.
Sandy Stewart, MCI

Sandy Stewart

August 19, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Cathy Kerwin

August 19, 2013

My synpathies are with your entire family.

Judge Mitch Hough

August 19, 2013

There are no right words when you have lost someone so dear. I personally did not know Paul but I know he was special from the stories that Sharon would share with us and the light in her eyes and smile when she spoke of her grandson Paul. The entire Nahon family is and has been in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless all of you with peace, Sue Ann

Sue Holloway

August 19, 2013

This young man will long be remembered and loved for the talent he possesed.It
was a joy to have known him. God bless
you Paul and Angel.

Dan ward

August 19, 2013

While I never met Paul, I've heard nothing both wonderful things about him from some who were close to him. While he will definitely be missed, his gifts and the memories of him will continue to inspire, motivate and bring joy to those who knew him.

Dale Hays

August 19, 2013

My sincerest sympathy to the family of Paul G. Nahon III. Dan Letsch

Daniel Letsch

August 19, 2013

We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. May God bless and comfort all the Nahon family. You are in our prayers. Tom and Tina Fowler III

Tom Fowler III

August 18, 2013

What a beautiful young man, way ahead of his time, giving his best every day and achieving greatness so early in life. My heart and love goes out to the Nahons's, all the family and friends who have lost this precious wonderful human being. He embraced life to the fullest and was clearly role model to all.

Beth Stovall

August 18, 2013

Such an exemplary young man and a clear spirit. He is an inspiration to generations of young Springfieldians to follow his shining example of being a man, a beloved family member, an athlete and a friend. He will be remembered.

Lee Ann Walker

August 18, 2013

Please know I am heartbroken for ALL of you. The world has lost a wonderful, talented and respected young man. My prayers and love to you all. Sharon, I am beyond sorry because I know how proud you are of your grandsons. I miss and love you.

Deby Roesing

August 18, 2013

I can't stop thinking about you and your family angel. I only know how it felt for me to lose Rick. I really can't imagine losing a child. I only know it must be unbearable. You are lucky to have such an awesome loving family. I would love too help if you need anything. Lia

Lia Latham

August 18, 2013

I never had the pleasure of knowing Paul but I have a 20 year old son that also graduated from Glendale. Hearing the news of his death devastated me. We all forget how precious life is and that every single day is a blessing. Your family has been in my thoughts and prayers every day. I'm SO very sorry...we should never have to bury a child, but it sounds like he was an AMAZING young man and left his mark on the world! God Bless

Vicki Bettlach

August 18, 2013

I know there are no words to say. The loss of a child will never be over, please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family. Kim and Dana Carrington, (Courtney Coles' mother).

August 18, 2013

My Dearest Paul and Angel,
My heart is heavy as I write this to you. I am so sad and so sorry to hear about Paul and you all have constantly been on my mind and in my heart. No parent should ever have to bury a child. I am praying for you every day and will continue to do so. May God Bless you all.
Mary Banning

Mary Banning

August 18, 2013

You ARE always my kids' one of the best role model. You will be missed forever.....

Doan, Win, Vinh and Nam Pham

August 18, 2013

It saddens me to know that we have lost a bright and shining star. I loved hearing about Paul's achievements. Paul was an exceptional young man. To all of the Nahon family, I extend my heartfelt sympathy.

Anna Mobley

August 18, 2013

We pray God will comfort you, and send Angels from above, giving sweet peace within your heart, surrounding you with Eternal Love. We are sorry for your deep loss. There is so little we can find to say. You are in our thoughts and prayers, as we grieve with you today. With our heartfelt sympathy. Sue Ellen, Ed and Charlie Ball

Sue Ball

August 18, 2013

There may be no greater pain than losing a child or grandchild. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Nahon family. Paul was a near perfect role model for all in his sphere of influence. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Betty and Neal Ethridge

August 18, 2013

Paul, Angel, Paul Sr., Sharon and Michelle, my family and I are lifting you up in prayer. Words fail us but we send you love, strength and condolences. We pray for your comfort and healing. God bless you, Tim

Tim Webster

August 18, 2013

Our sympathy is extended to Paul's entire family. We had the pleasure of watching Paul compete in Valley tennis for years and enjoyed his competitive spirit, his enormous passion for the game, and for his enthusiasm toward life and people. Our hearts are filled with sadness for the loss you are enduring. May God fill you with peace and the joy of memories from a young man who lived richly.

Ed, Syd, Chase, and Quinn Dippel

August 18, 2013

Angle and Paul you raised a wonderful son and what he contributed to this world and to the people that he influenced by the way he lived his life will always be remembered.My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Susan Boswell

August 18, 2013

Dear Angel, Paul and John,

You have my heartfelt sympathy for your tragic loss.

Jeremy Skinner

August 18, 2013

We are sending our condolences to all of the Nahon family. May the love and support of friends and family carry you through these hard days ahead. God bless you always, The Johnston family: T.J., Pam, Harry and Meg. Texas & California
Harry and Meg. Texas & California

August 18, 2013

We were very fortunate to get to watch Paul play tennis at the state finals in Springfield of 2011, while our son, just 2 months older than Paul, played on a team there. Our son also hiked in the Rockies on August 7-10 this year. Our hearts and thoughts go out to you, and while we do not know you and did not know Paul, we still mourn with you and for you. We cannot begin to fully comprehend the enormity of this loss for you. May there be some way that you will eventually find peace in this life again. Please know that friends, family and even strangers like us are mourning with you, and may that thought help to ease your awful loss and pain.

John & Veronica Hambacker

August 18, 2013

My deepest sympathies go out to Paul's family and friends; Paul was one of the nicest people I've ever known and he always went out of his way just to say hello

James

August 18, 2013

Dear Sharon , Paul and Nahon Family , The tragic loss of Your grandson is unthinkable , sad beyond words .Bill and I extend our deepest , heartfelt condolences and prayers , Sincerely , Bill and Margo Armstrong

margo armstrong

August 18, 2013

Your family has been in our thoughts since we heard the tragic news. Our deepest sympathies.

Zach Mueck and family

August 18, 2013

We are truly saddened to hear of Paul's passing. We have many fond memories of spending time with Paul and the Nahon family at many tennis tournaments throughout the years. Paul was an outgoing, kind, competitive and intelligent young man. Our deepest sympathies, The West Family (St. Louis)

August 18, 2013

You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are better people for having had Paul in our lives.
The Neilson family

August 18, 2013

My sympathies to a beautiful family,

Catherine Coffman, St. Louis MO

August 18, 2013

My heart goes out to the Nahon family. My words can not express the loss.. My prayers. and love.

Frank &Susan Carnahan

August 18, 2013

Terry Mitchell

August 18, 2013

I've learned NOT to say"I know you feel.....". I can't imagine how the Nahon family can feel. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt wishes to all of those no were blessed to know this young man. The world has lost a rising star,,,,,here.

Randy Voss

August 18, 2013

Showing 1 - 84 of 84 results

Make a Donation
in Paul Nahon's name

Memorial Events
for Paul Nahon

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Inc. - Springfield

1947 East Seminole Street, Springfield, MO 65804

How to support Paul's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Paul Nahon's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more