Nael “Nick” Khoury

Nael “Nick” Khoury left this life the way he lived it – surrounded by love, beauty, and family. Nick embodied responsibility and love as an unconditional, selfless action. He quietly changed lives, without recognition or fanfare. He never complained, and always found a way to solve life’s issues – no matter how large or small - with patience and love.

From an early age, Nick assumed significant responsibility supporting and guiding his mother, step-mother, and sisters upon the early passing of his father. He then carried that tradition of self-sacrifice forward to his own immediate family and in-laws. Nick’s love and guidance were extended to those who had the privilege of calling him a friend - irreparably touching and often changing the trajectory of their lives. To be loved by Nick was incomparable. His love was dependable, loyal, and genuine.

Nick was born to a priestly family in Haifa, a coastal city in Palestine, on February 25, 1960. He then moved to the USA from Nazareth with his mother, Samira, and father Kamel - following his maternal grandfather, Father George Harb, who was sent to America to found the St. George Antiochian Orthodox

Church in Portland. He became an active member in the church, serving as an altar boy, President of the Parish and then becoming an active member of the Order of Saint Ignatius in his adulthood. Nick grew up in the Parkrose neighborhood, playing soccer at Parkrose High School. He attended the University of Oregon, joined the Phi-Si fraternity, and graduated with a BS in business administration.

He had a 40-year career in technology, of which 30 years were spent at Oracle Corporation, where he managed a national team as a VP and GM of Customer Success Services. Nick received many awards of excellence throughout his career, both for himself and for leading teams to be the best in the country for consecutive years. He is known, however, not only for his strategic approach to problem solving, his ability to identify and nurture great talent, but again, for his unwavering support and guidance of his team – often changing the trajectory of their careers.

Nael was a fierce voice and advocate for the Palestinian people. As President of the Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee both in Portland, OR, and New York, NY, he organized educational summits, led delegations to the UN (meeting then Secretary General Kofi Annan), and created press junkets for global advocates, including Queen Noor of Jordan in New York City. He was an encyclopedia of the history of Palestine and used his knowledge to educate those who would listen.

Through his expansive grasp of history and a clear, calm approach, Nick could change peoples’ perspectives by offering a historical view of the conflict. But what Nick will most be remembered for is his absolute joy, love, and commitment to his family – his wife Dina and his two children, Helena and Kam. Nick and Dina built a life together over 40 years- married for 28. The two were committed to each other, teaching their children that love is more than a feeling, but an action.

His children were his everything. He never missed a game or performance, and showed up with advice, whether asked or not, with open arms. He supported his children in any challenge, meeting them with unwavering patience, unconditional love, and reassurance that everything would be okay.

Much like the meaning of his name, Nael (which means gift) he was a gift to all who were graced by his presence and had their lives touched by him. Whether it be his family, friends, or colleagues, to know him was to receive the gift of his care, attention, intellect, and loyalty.

He is survived by his beloved wife Dina, his children Helena and Kam, his stepmother Siham Khoury, his sisters Muna, Nadia (brother-in-law Matt) and Dahlia and his nieces and nephews. His love and spirit were a gift like no other and will be dearly missed, yet never forgotten. His legacy and virtuous lessons will be carried on by both his children, whom he was deeply proud of and who loved him deeply.