-Paul Nelson of Tryon passed away peacefully at Foothills Hospice in Landrum S.C. on December 24th, 2017.Paul was born on February 19, 1924 in New York City to Helen and Clifford Nelson. He lived in several locations in NY while growing up and graduated from Ardsley High School in 1941. He attended Alfred University in Alfred, NY majoring in glass technology before serving in the Army Air Corps from 1943-1946. He then attended Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Washington DC, graduating in 1948 with a BS in Foreign Commerce. Taking a leap of faith, Paul later went on to get a Masters degree in Hospital Administration in 1961. He served as Assistant Administrator from 1961-1963 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita KN before accepting the position of Administrator at Sheldon Memorial Hospital in Albion MI. In 1969 he became executive director of Southwestern Michigan Health Planning Council.From 1970-1984 Paul served as administrator of the Emma L. Bixby Hospital in Adrian, MI. In both hospital positions he was involved in major building programs. He also served on many hospital related and community boards.When his wife Margaret retired as a school teacher, then moved to Punta Gorda, FL where they resided for the next 18 years. In 2003 they moved to Polk County where they lived in both Columbus and Tryon.Paul was active in many community activities and an active member of Rotary since 1963. He had a passion as a Mark Twain collector and lecturer and enjoyed humor and reading. He was an active member of The Congregational Church of Tryon.Paul was preceded in death by his wife Margaret and two grandsons. Margaret and Paul were married for 64 years. Remaining family members include sons Bruce (Teri), Mark (Sandy), and daughter Janet (Doug) as well as 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.A memorial service for Paul will be held Friday, December 29th at 2 pm at The Congregational Church on Melrose Ave. in Tryon NC.
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