Michael Scott Nance

Michael Scott Nance 

July 21, 1952 – February 6, 2025

Heaven welcomed home one of God’s choice spirits on February 6, 2025, after a courageous year-long battle with brain cancer. Michael Scott Nance was born on July 21, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to James and Elizabeth Goldthorpe Nance. Shortly after his birth, the Nance family moved to Springville, Utah, where Mike lived for the rest of his life and cherished his community.

From a young age, Mike embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved exploring new adventures, whether it was scuba diving in California, skiing the Black Diamond runs in Utah, water skiing in the murky waters of Utah Lake, or playing hours of tennis while trying to beat his older brother. He had a special fondness for family trips to Disneyland, where one memorable experience found Mike and his brothers accidentally behind bars in the Disney jail due to a misunderstanding. Through these adventures, Mike created countless memories with his family, forming deep bonds of friendship that would last a lifetime.

Throughout his school years and into adulthood, Mike cultivated lifelong friendships, often remarking that he was blessed to associate with so many wonderful people. His love for others was evident in every interaction, and he often said he could not think of a person he didn’t love. This boundless love and his cheerful disposition made him a beloved figure to all who knew him.

At the age of 19, Mike was called to serve a mission in Taiwan. During his time there, he developed a profound love for the Chinese people and their language. Even after his mission, he studied Mandarin daily, feeling a strong impression that he would need it again in his life. He could often be found reviewing flashcards, whether at baseball games or sitting in his favorite recliner. 

On April 19, 1975, Mike was sealed for time and all eternity to Gloria Gardner in the Provo Temple. Together, they created a loving home in Springville, where they raised five children. Family was everything to Mike. He spent countless hours coaching his children in sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, and basketball, fostering a love for athletics in each of them.

Mike’s academic journey led him to Brigham Young University, where his passion for science guided him into a 40-year career in Medical Technology at Utah Valley Hospital in Provo. His dedication to his work and the people he served was a testament to his caring nature.

In addition to his professional life, Mike served with devotion in various church callings, including as bishop three times. His testimony of Christ and His restored church was unwavering. Most recently, he had the honor of serving as an Assistant Recorder at the Provo City Center Temple, a calling he cherished deeply.

After retiring, Mike and Gloria had the opportunity to travel the world together, experiencing so many of God’s beautiful creations. Yearly retreats with his children and grandchildren provided additional views of the natural wonders of Utah. Mike also developed a love for golf, a sport he embraced with passion, honing his skills through hours of practice and forming meaningful friendships with his golf buddies.

In 2018, Mike and Gloria accepted a church service opportunity in Mainland China. Mike’s years of studying Chinese proved invaluable, as he shared his medical knowledge and spread God’s light to the beautiful people of China.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Gloria Gardner Nance, and their five children: Tricia Hart (Ryan), Scott Nance (Krista), Brady Nance (Jennifer), Brett Nance (Ashley), and Natalie Magnusson (Logan), as well as his four brothers, James, Steven, Paul, and David Nance. His legacy also includes 14 beautiful grandchildren who will continue to honor his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Janice Nance and Janene Nance Allan. His cheery disposition, unwavering kindness, and love for others will be his lasting legacy.

A memorial service to celebrate Mike’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel located at 350 North 400 East, Springville, Utah. A visitation will be held Tuesday, February 11, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary and again on Wednesday from 9:30–10:30 a.m. at the chapel. Following the memorial service, Mike will be laid to rest at the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page. 

For those unable to attend in person, you may view the services HERE