Paul H. Nonaka

Paul Hiromi Nonaka, 90, of Oak Grove, MO, passed away on May 17, 2024, at The Villages of Jackson Creek. Born to Jinkurō and Takano Nonaka on July 9, 1933, in Hanapepe, Kauai, Hawaii, Paul was the ninth of ten siblings and grew up on the family farm. He came to the mainland to attend college, establishing his family life and career as a dentist in Missouri.

Paul arrived in the Midwest in 1951. Before completing his education, he served for two years in the U.S. Army. He graduated from the University of Kansas City (currently UMKC) on June 1, 1963, and married Myrna Jones on June 2. Paul was certified to practice dentistry in both Hawaii and Missouri. In November of 1963, the couple set up their home in Buckner, where Paul established his dental practice and served generations of families who affectionately called him “Doc.”

Paul and Myrna had two children: Angela Miyuki and Aaron Hiromi Nonaka. Paul was a devoted father who supported his children in all phases of their lives, fully recognizing and appreciating his children’s different talents, needs, and personalities. When Aaron was growing up, he and his father shared a love of tennis, table tennis, and judo. Active members of the local table tennis and judo clubs, their enthusiasm took them to competitions in other states. Meanwhile, as Angela undertook formal study of Japanese at KU, Dad, a lifelong learner, taught himself to read and write basic Japanese, which expanded his karaoke repertoire.

Downing doughnuts and wielding duct tape, Paul crisscrossed the country and ventured abroad to help his adult children move, repair, remodel, and build their lives. In retirement he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who cherish the many life lessons taught by their Papa.

He is survived by his two children, Angela and Aaron (Michelle) Nonaka; five grandchildren Danielle Mitsuki (Tommy) Aloi, Tori Michie Nonaka, Brenna Miyuki Nonaka, Shawn Hiromi Reed Nonaka, and Brendan Hiromi Nonaka; two great-grandchildren, Thomas and Liliana Mika Aloi; a sister, Clara McCollum; and many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

The family will welcome guests at visitation at the Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove on Thursday, May 30, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. There will be a private burial the following day in Clinton.

Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441