Nage Lee Damas

On October 20th, 1951 Nage Lee Damas was born in Toledo, Ohio to his beloved parents, Josephine and Frederick Damas, weighing10 lbs. 6 oz. Nage entered this world the same way he would leave it on May 23rd, 2015 - with an abundant amount of strength, presence and authenticity.

Always a natural-born leader and never one to shy away from hard work, Nage earned a Bachelor of Science, with a focus in math and engineering, from the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point. Beyond excelling in academics, he also thrived as an athlete, procuring the position of Captain of the university's wrestling team. After graduating in 1973, his intense drive to compete took him all the way to the Olympic Trials.

The acclaimed institute unquestionably helped shape Nage's character with founding principles of duty, honor and the highest level of integrity. Nage held those basic ideals close as he continued his military profession as a Captain in the United States Army. Years later, Nage transitioned to a more corporate-based career path until eventually deciding to fulfill a life-long dream of overseeing his own company. Success undoubtedly followed and Nage proved himself an intelligent and fair businessman.

For those who knew him and those who knew of him, Nage's highly regarded reputation of tenacity and perseverance will long succeed his death. He was not a man who accepted failure as an option. Nage earned respect by respecting others. He was a man of his word and to break a promise was to fail, something Nage never allowed himself to do. He maintained his larger-than-life presence until the end. Proud to bear a bold and often intimidating physical exterior, Nage's inner core was full of tender kindness, overwhelming generosity, and unwavering compassion.

However, it was not the opinion of strangers by whom Nage measured his successes, but rather by his true life’s passion - his family, for who he was a dedicated son, husband and father.

Survived by his ninety-eight year old father, Nage remained steadfast in his role as devoted son until the very end. Nage cared for, looked after and protected his father daily. He would undoubtedly agree it was one of the greatest honors of his life. In turn, his father viewed Nage not only as his loyal son, but also as his very best friend.

Survived by his beautiful wife, Kerry. The couple met over 45 years ago on a blind date. Kerry asked a lot of questions and Nage didn’t seem to mind answering them. Their love was instant and grew more powerful over time. The two were able to embrace life’s greatest gift – unconditional love – and their time spent together was never taken for granted. Nage based his whole life’s happiness around that of his wife. To see her smile was his greatest joy.

Lastly, Nage is survived by his four grown children: son Colin, daughters Alya, Micaela and Tiernan. He lived the majority of his adult life dedicated to being their father. He was a devoted father whom never slacked on his responsibilities to shape and enhance all their lives. They will miss his voice, guidance, security, compassion and love. Nage was and will forever be their real-life super hero.

Funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 6th, at Church of the Nativity, 3800 W. 119th Street, Overland Park, Kansas. Private burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery South. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.