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Living Legend – From Steve Parrish, PLS, CFedS
I don’t really recall when I met Paul but know that it was several
decades ago. I’m sure it was through our mutual interest in land
Paul S. Pace, PLS surveying. Knowing Paul is like knowing a “Gentle Giant” – not
only in physical stature but by the personal traits that define
Paul Pace, a Nevada Living Legend, has made significant contribu- him. Many warm conversations, professional discussions, shared
tions to the land surveying profession in both Northern Nevada personal experiences, and reading his well thought out historical
and Eastern California for more than 55 years through his exten- writings, have shown me the first, and most important trait I have
sive writing, expertise, and dedication. Over the span of nearly observed – Paul is a “Family Man,” through and through. He self-
four decades, Pace has authored more than 47 articles for The lessly supports his family, immediate and extended (and Jeannie is
Nevada Traverse. His articles have covered diverse topics rang- his personal coach and inspiration). This selfless trait is extended
ing from historical surveys to modern retracements, showcasing to his personal friends and professional colleagues.
his profound knowledge and passion for the profession. Paul was
with Sierra Pacific Power Company’s survey group for 34 years His integrity, attention to detail, writing talent, and interest in
and for 11 years was a Special Projects Consultant and Senior historical research has been, and continues to be, a gift to our land
Project Manager for Stantec Consulting’s geomatics group. Both surveying profession, especially in our NALS organization. One of
firms are located in Reno, Nevada. Paul retired in 2010. For 20 my early experiences with Paul was a trip we shared to Lewiston,
years Paul was a surveying instructor and Director of the Summer Idaho to present workshops for the Idaho Society of Professional
Field Camp for mining engineering students, at the Mackay School Land Surveyors. The trip to and from, and discussions about our
of Mines, University of Nevada, Reno. He is a Life member of the presentations, solidified my knowledge of, and appreciation for,
Nevada Association of Land Surveyors and former Lahontan Chap- the great friend that Paul has been in my life these many years.
ter President. Paul is also affiliated with the Nevada State Railroad Another pleasure in recent years has been the opportunity to work
Museum and the Historic Tonopah Mining. alongside Paul and the rest of the “Cannoniers” in search of the
John C. Fremont Canon. The evening firesides, shared food items,
Paul’s Early Career and Exploration of Ancient Surveying Tech- early morning breakfasts, and comradery among the team is
niques to Preserving History through his writings: unparalleled.

In 1984, Paul Pace made his debut as a writer in The Nevada This Living Legend honor, bestowed on Paul Pace, is well deserved
Traverse with his inaugural article titled “Erastosthenes and and an acknowledgement of the contributions he has unselfishly
the Egyptian Surveyors.” This enlightening piece delved into the given to all who know him. CONGRATULATIONS, MR. PACE.
ancient surveying techniques employed by Erastosthenes, the Thanks for the memories. Steve Parrish Family.
renowned Greek scholar, and the early Egyptian surveyors. From
the outset, Pace’s writing demonstrated his deep appreciation for From Matt Gingerich, PLS
the historical context of surveying, setting the stage for his subse-
quent contributions. I vividly remember my first conversation with Paul about the land
surveying profession in 1993. He was so generous with advice
One of Paul Pace’s notable contributions is his recent article in in that phone call. He shared his background and experiences
this edition of The Nevada Traverse titled “Retracement of the surveying for Sierra Pacific Power Company. I have been fortunate
Fort Churchill Military Reservation and Lieutenant George M. since that time to have him as a mentor and good friend. We all
Wheeler.” This meticulously researched piece that Paul and Matt have read the historical articles he has written for the Nevada
put together delves into the survey conducted on the historic Fort Tracers over the decades. They are thoroughly researched and
Churchill Military Reservation, shedding light on the pioneering written to capture our attention. Having followed in his footsteps,
work of Lieutenant George M. Wheeler in the late 19th century. I can say the work he did with the Power Company is in much the
Pace’s attention to detail, historical accuracy, and dedication to same fashion. The field notes and the research he prepared for
preserving the legacy of surveying pioneers exemplify his commit- many of the electric transmission lines you see across the State
ment to our profession’s heritage. have the same flair. He always finds the human aspect of the
work and brings that history back to life. His passion for history
Through his exceptional expertise, insightful writing, and com- has led him to dedicating countless hours to the NECOR group
mitment to the profession, Paul has left an indelible mark on the committed to finding and preserving the monumentation of the
profession, inspiring future generations of surveyors to pursue Nevada/California boundary, and the Fremont Howitzer Recovery
excellence in their work. Team searching for the mountain howitzer abandoned in 1844.
Paul’s exceptional contributions to the profession have earned him Paul has set such a great example for continuing to educate one-
numerous accolades and recognition. In 2011, he was honored as self and give back to our profession. Thanks for your dedication to
the Surveyor of the Year, a testament to his exceptional skills and our profession. He is a true Living Legend.
leadership. Additionally, his exceptional writing skills and insight-
ful articles have garnered him four Article of the Year awards. In From Carl R. C.de Baca, PLS
2017, Pace was bestowed with the prestigious distinction of be-
coming a life member of The Nevada Association of Land Survey- I have known Paul for many years. It is my strongly held belief
ors, signifying his enduring commitment and contributions to this that you cannot know Paul and not love him. That guy is the Salt
publication and the Nevada surveying community. of the Earth. He comes from the generation before mine (barely)
and is part of that group of surveyors and NALS members that I
On behalf of ALL of the Nevada Association of Land Surveyors, hold in particularly high esteem. Paul happens to be a part of one
past and present members, we THANK YOU, Paul. You truly are a of my favorite surveyor photos of all time along with Phil Mott
Living Legend! – TK and George Lindesmith. They are standing in front of a banner

14 The Nevada Traverse Vol.50, No.2, 2023