Herb Nance

Herb Nance, 85, of Cape Girardeau passed away Friday, Nov. 2, 2012, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Feb. 23, 1927, in Bell City, Mo., to John H. and Stella Pryor Nance. He and Virginia Watkins were married Sept. 1, 1951, in Cape Girardeau.

Herb began his career in the military by enlisting in the Army out of high school, where he served his country bravely during World War II. After being honorably discharged, Herb joined the Air Force where he ended his career.

For many years Herb was a construction superintendent for Ray Clinton in Sikeston, Mo., before retiring. He worked at Central Hardware, and then founded Ourco Flag Co. where he earned the nickname of "the flagman" throughout Southeast Missouri, Southern Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana. He was heavily involved in both VFW and American Legion, where for a period of time he was commander of both. Herb was a member of the Elks, Eagles and Disabled American Veterans. He was an avid baseball fan and loved watching his grandsons play sports.

Herb was instrumental in helping with Freedom Corner and refurbishing the Cape Rock site. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a daughter, Debbie (Alan) Keenan of Sikeston; two grandsons, Jonathan Keenan of Sikeston and Scott Keenan of St. Louis; a nephew, Gary (Judy) Danback; and a niece, Carlyn (Russell) Knight.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and three sisters.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Chapel.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Geoff Posegate officiating. Burial will be in Lorimier Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Missouri Veterans Home, 2400 Memorial Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.