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Nathan Goldwater Obituary

Nathan Goldwater, 31, of Mesa AZ. passed away at Rochester Methodist Hospital (Mayo Clinic) in Rochester, MN. After being diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis at age 16, Nate fought courageously against the degenerative liver disease for more than half his life. Last October, he was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, or bile duct cancer. It was hoped that treatment, followed by a liver transplant, would eradicate both problems. Nate underwent a successful living donor liver transplant from his brother Bryan, on March 8; numerous post-operative complications ultimately led to Nathan's untimely passing. One of Nate' final wishes was to make sure people knew that he "did not go peacefully." He wanted everyone to know that he fought till the end - fighting with the combination of determination, generosity, humor and grace that marked his time on Earth. Nathan's story ended in Minnesota, but he was a native Arizonan, and quite proud of his hometown of Phoenix. He graduated from Paradise Valley High school in 1993 and attended the University of Arizona, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Media Arts in 1999. Nate met the love of his life, Rachel Bishop, in Tucson that same year. They married in November 2001 and enjoyed a wonderful - albeit all too brief - life together, culminating in the birth of their son, Gehrig Ryan, on November 1, 2006. Nathan called Gehrig's birth "the greatest day of my life." Numerous people enjoyed great days because of the positive attitude Nate had and the energy he gave to others. He possessed a rare combination of qualities: honesty, integrity, loyalty and humanity. Nathan was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Goldwater in 1987. Both pairs of grandparents - Bert and Phyllis Goldwater and Seymour and Annette Stein - also passed away in recent years. Family and friends are comforted by the knowledge that Nathan has rejoined his loved ones. Nate is survived and will be cherished by his wife, Rachel Goldwater; the special gift he gave to all of us in his son, Gehrig Goldwater; parents, Nancy and Andy Reed of Phoenix, AZ; brother Bryan Goldwater of Phoenix, AZ; aunts and uncles, Rosie and Kim Batcheller of Pittsboro, NC; Deena and John Morgan of London, England; Sandra Stein of Phoenix, AZ; Sandra and James Halley, of Reno, NV; Trent and Bonnie Saviers of Reno, NV; beloved Great Aunt and Uncle, Sid and Evelyn Goldfarb; mother-in-law, Virginia Coen of Tucson, AZ; brother and sister-in-law, Glenn and Sherry Bishop of Los Angeles, CA; and numerous other relatives who will miss him greatly. He will be lovingly remembered by his extended family, the Butlers and Greens and his very dear friend of more than twenty years, Garrick Taylor and his family. Last but not least are Nate's colleagues at IKON Office Solutions, where he found a professional home and yet another family during the last two years of his life. Family and friends will have the opportunity to gather for a Celebration of Nathan's Life to be held Saturday, June 9th, 2007 at 3:00 P.M. at Shadow Mountain Mortuary, 2350 E. Greenway Rd. Phoenix AZ. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations are made to Gehrig's college fund at any Wells Fargo Bank. As we search for the strength to carry on, Nate would encourage us to heed the words of one of his heroes, former U of A football captain John "Button" Salmon. Nate would tell us all to "Bear Down."

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Published by The Arizona Republic from May 17 to May 20, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Nathan Goldwater

Not sure what to say?





This one's mine-get your own!

June 10, 2009

Lunch At Abuelo's

June 10, 2009

Lunch At Abuelo's

June 10, 2009

Zoo Visit

June 13, 2008

Nate Goldwater Daylily

June 13, 2008

Nate's Big Catch 11/1/06 6 lb 11 oz 19"

June 13, 2008

Bette Jefferson

June 11, 2008

Bette's Eulogy for Nathan - May, 2007

Amazing, joyful, honorable, courageous, genuine. These are some of the words used to describe Nathan ( not a page out of the boy scout handbook). Add trustworthy, loyal, clean, brave & reverant and you have a perfect scout. One other word his friends used to describe him – hilarious. So it’s o.k. to punctuate our tears with laughter as we gather to celebrate his life.

Everyone Nate touched in his short life has been left with a gift, the inspiration to face our own battles with the same great attitude that he had.

I’ve known this family for a long time; but I really got to know their courage and determination when Nathan was a Senior at U of A,

1998. You’d never know by looking at him or talking to him, but Nathan was in a race against the clock. He was going to school, working 2 jobs, playing sports, and he had 18 months to go before his liver failed; 18 months to get an organ transplant. While other kids were thinking about making the Dean’s list, Nathan was worried about making the Organ Transplant list.

The memory that I want to share with you is of our car wash on April 4, 1998. I still can not drive by a Saturday fund-raising car wash w/o thinking of Nathan.
The car wash was at a Circle K. Nancy and I, and Ikon colleagues, were raising money for COTA, which would be credited to Nathan when his donor was found. Nathan drove up from U of A to help us. He was never an observer, always an active participant in conquering his disease.

It was hot. We had no customers. We were in luck-Sandy P. had worn her bikini top that day, so we sent her down to the corner with a Car Wash sign. It worked, customers started coming in. We didn’t invent the “bikini top car wash” that day, but we dignified it with our good intentions.

A couple drove up in a black Jaguar. They were wonderful, talked to Nathan for a while about his situation. The Jaguar sparkled in the sun, it had obviously just had a bath. We were charging $5 to wash a car, they gave us $20 and asked us to not wash their car. So the street price became $5 to wash your car, $20 to leave it alone.

I learned a lot from Nathan that day, a lesson in courage and optimism from a young man who never should have had these burdens.

Nathan was never alone in his battle, he had the strongest support from family and friends that I have ever seen.

There’s Nancy, a devoted and loving mother who never lost sight of the fact that she was Mom to two sons, Always optimistic and upbeat, and performing the most humbling tasks with dignity and grace. Nancy, if there were an American Idol for Moms, you would win, hands down
Andy, quiet and gentle, always there for Nancy. You’ve been the rock, a source of strength for her and everyone.

Rachel – what joy you brought him in the last years of his life – and you gave the world the gift of Gehrig. Your Nate will always watch over you.

Last but not least to Bryan

Bryan, you made an organ donation to your brother, but what you really gave was a huge gift - a chance for Nathan to watch another Dodger game, celebrate another birthday, another anniversary, enjoy another sunset. It was not to be, but there is no greater gift that a loving brother could possibly give.

So, when we leave here today, let’s keep these gifts going. As you’re going about your Saturday business, if you spot a fund-raising car wash, drive in, put a $20 bill in the pot and please let them know that it’s a gift from a great man named Nathan

Uncle Kim and Aunt Rosie

June 10, 2008

It is a joy to see Nathan's spirit living on in Nate and Rachel's son, Gehrig Ryan Goldwater.

Gehrig's energy and radiant smile are constant reminders of his father's magnetism.

Gehrig & Grandma

June 9, 2008

Brothers enjoying a snowy eve . . .

June 9, 2008

Proud Father.

June 9, 2008

Nate horsing around.

June 9, 2008

Nathan enjoying a crisp winter day.

June 9, 2008

"The Boys" Christmas 2006

June 9, 2008

Rachel, Gehrig & Nate

June 9, 2008

Nate

June 9, 2008

Bryan and Nathan

June 9, 2008

Ted and Carmen Hert

May 8, 2008

Though I did not personally meet Nathan, I too feel miss him. I have the pleasure of working with his loving mother, Nancy, who so “lovingly” speaks of him often. I feel as though I knew him too. This is what I have captured from our conversations…. There was so much life yet left in Nathan, even to the last moment. He loved people and people loved him. Among one of his greatest accomplishments was giving birth to his son, Gehrig, which happens to be Nancy’s greatest treasure. He was a doting son, a close brother, and a wonderful friend. I regret not meeting him, but will some day. – In Remembrance of him today, May 8, 2008.

John Denson

April 30, 2008

I only knew Nate for a short time but he was one of those people who made you feel as though you'd known each other forever! He was a wonderful humanitarian who's positive attitude and great sense of humor would always leave a smile on your face. I believe his energy and enthusiasm have left a permanent impact on the lives he touched.

Nathan and Gehrig Ryan Goldwater

Bette Jefferson

April 16, 2008

Nathan keeps on giving - Poster from the First Annual IKON-Nate Goldwater Memorial Blood Drive

Erin (Jackson)Kirby

April 15, 2008

From an email 5/8/2007: Mrs Reed, Words can't express the sorrow we are all feeling at the loss of Nathan. I worked with Nate at IKON from 2005-2006, and he was truly a wonderful, amazing man. His kind, loving nature, optimism and love for life (especially his family) were unmistakable and truly inspiring-he touched my life in a way few people ever could. My partner and I are expecting twin sons in June and can only hope they grow up to be such exemplary men as Nathan was. We will miss him dearly, but the impact he made on our lives leaves us better people for having known him. Please know that you, Rachel, Gehrig and your entire family are in my family's thoughts and prayers. Please do not hesitate to let me know if there is anything we can do for any of you.

Amie Sangster

April 9, 2008

From an email 5/15/2007. Nancy-Iam so sorry for your loss...words can't express the sadness I feel today. We as Mother's don't want to imagine this to happen to our children and I have to say Lady that you have incredile class. You have been strong, positive and simply a pillar of grace through such an incredibly difficult time. I respect your undying optimism. Knowing that you now have this incredible angel looking out over you makes me feel a strange sense of relief. Please know that my heart is with you as I know you have captured all of our hearts. You and your son have a great gift...people are drawn to you both. Best wishes to you and your family. Respectfully, Amie

Sandi Lugiewicz-Kilian

April 9, 2008

From an email 5/15/2007. It is so hard to undertstand life at times like this...you and your family are in my prayers. I have worked here over 25 years and have never become to attached to one person as I had Nate. There was something about him, that made me just love him to pieces. I will miss him.

Nancy Gooch

April 9, 2008

From an email 5/8/2007. My heart is broken but very glad I have had the time to know and love Nate. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. Be strong but it's okay to cry and miss him. He was truly a special person and will be greatly missed. I am sending you a really big hug right now. I hope you can feel it.

Carolyn Schlegel

April 9, 2008

From an email 5/8/2007. Nancy-I don't know what to say except that I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious son. I am so glad we knew him. I will never forget seeing the two of you dancing at his wedding to the song "Stand By Me". At the time I could barely focus the camera because of the tears in my eyes. I know he's in a better place, but the loss for you and all of his extended family and friends is just so devastating. Our love to Rachel and Bryan and that beautiful baby. Love Jay and Carolyn

Hank Brandt

April 9, 2008

From an email 5/15/2007. Nancy, I am very sorry to hear of Nate's passing. He was a great man and had such a positive impact on so many people during his much, much too short time. I lost my brother to cancer March 1st, 2006 and I know how painful it is for you and his brother. I only visited with him a couple of times and the time I remember most was talking with him during a Major Account Rep dinner last July. He had passion and intensity for everything he did. He was a passionate Wildcat fan in the middle of Sun Devil country and he wasn't afraid to let his peers know. I remember seeing his cubicle which was a monument of Wildcat memorablia with banners and the Button Salmon saying, tell them to "Bear Down". He was passionate about baseball and we had an inspiring conversation on why he wanted to name his son Ted Williams, "the greatest baseball player to ever live". At least he got to name him Gehrig. Nate was truly a home run as a person, as a husband and as a father. I'm sure he's standing at home plate in his new field of dreams visiting with all of his favorite heroes. You and your family are in my prayers as you go through this very difficult time. God Bless.

Doug Pringle

April 9, 2008

Nancy, I am so sorry. This is a terrible loss & I can't imagine what you are going through. Nate was an incredible person that I considereed a friend. I must say there are precious few people in this world with his creativity and outlook on life. He & I would often be in the office before anyone else (except Marcey). He would play the theme song from Dukes of Hazard & imitate lines from the movies. I swear there wasn't a single line from any movie that he couldn't name. Seeing him was always a great start to my day. When he was offered a promotion, he almost didn't accept because he was worried about leaving the team. That is so rare in the modern world; he genuinely cared about the success of others. His contributions were immeasurable. I respected his intelligence, quick wit & humanity in an artificial world. He will be sorely missed and I treasure the memories. You and your family are in our thoughts. Thank you for being such a great mother to such a great guy.

Tim Martin

June 14, 2007

I remember the first time I spoke to Nate after a late night minor league baseball game in Stockton, California. It wasn't actually Nate on the other end of the phone call, but rather Christopher Walken. Of course, it wasn't really Chris Walken but Nate's spot on impression of the man. You couldn't of convinced me otherwise, and I will always remember how Nate took a pretty miserable night in the California League and had me laughing uncontrollably. What I will also remember about Nate that night, and subsequently every other time I spoke to him, is what he had a tendency of doing for most people he knew in his life; make them smile ear to ear.

I will miss you Nate, rest in peace my friend.

Natalie Pittman

June 9, 2007

Nathan greeted me each morning with a smile. I always looked forward to rounding the corner where he sat and spending the first few moments of my day chatting with a friendly face. From time to time he would say, "You smell unoffendingly wonderful today!" Or, if I wore my famous black Ralph Lauren crested blazer, he would call me "Captain Stubing" referring to the Love Boat. At the end of the day, Nate would send me off with a smile and always a laugh. He was notorious for hiding my black roller bag and would giggle at his desk (while listening to Journey on his laptop)! I still round the corner each morning and afternoon and miss his smile, laughter, pranks and cracks about my dress shirts and jackets! When I first transferred to Phoenix two years ago this month, Nate was the first sales rep in the building to give me a chance. It's tough being the new person in town or in an office. Nate made me feel welcome and took the time to get to know me. I value the time we had together and appreciate so very much our friendship. He will always hold a special place in my heart.

Candace Duke

June 7, 2007

Six you will truly be missed. There are no words to describe the type of man that you were. You were an amazing friend, loving husband, and an incredible father. Now I know we had our differences in sports but I know you would be proud of our Wildcats… the girls took home their 8th Championship in softball; I know you were watching. You were always true to the blue and I respect that and I respect you. I can only wish to have a husband like you were to Rachel. I will never forget the look in your eyes when you spoke of Gehrig and we will always let him know how great his father was and how much you loved him. I miss you six! We all miss you. Rest in Peace

Barbi Yates

June 4, 2007

Nate was the kind of person undescribable in words.. The only one that comes close is "Amazing." Once he touched your life, you were hooked. I meet Nate when we worked together at PF Changs. Soon we became friends and I helped him and Rachel find there home. My 2 boys adored him and I think he felt the same. The greastest compliment that they gave me was, one day they offered to take my boys to the park. They said that my youngest son-Steven was the reason they wanted to start a family of there own. I always knew that Nate would make an incredible father. He was the only person that let my boys play rough, so rough in fact that he wouldn't say anything until he was in physical pain. We will always remind Gehrig what an incredible father he was for the brief time he spent with him. Nate will be so missed. I still can't believe that I will never hear his voice again. Nate, I know you will watching over everyone, and I think of you everyday. I know you are watching Baseball everyday up there, so I know you happy. Don't worry about Rachel, I am here for her and so is everyone else. I love you and miss you dearly
Your friend,
Barbi

Tassie Phifer (Mozell)

June 1, 2007

Nathan blessed my childhood. I remember him as a teenager who was kind to us. He allowed us to be a part of his life. Looking back I see how amazing that was. I have never met a teenage boy who willingly included four little kids. I loved Nathan. Even after fourteen years I appreciate what he meant to me. I know that the kid he was then was just a reflection of the man he became. Just that reflection impacted my life. I watched him fight his battle with grace and strength. He taught me how to fight. He has touched more lives than he ever had imagined. May the Lord bless the ones he has left behind.

Louise Mozell

June 1, 2007

I will always remember Nathan as a bright spot that passed in and out of my life. When he would walk in it would be like no time had passed at all. He was thoughtful with my children and compassionate with me. His enthusiasm for life was contagious and his joy in his family was refreshing. His battle with disease always played second fiddle to his zest for life. I am thankful to have known him and am sorry that the last few years passed without getting to spend time with him. But, it sounds as tho he spent the last few years of his life really living it. May God bless you, Bryan and Nancy, and Rachel and Gehrig.

Michelle Mozell

May 31, 2007

I loved this man. So many years ago he was a second son to me. Honorable, courageous, hilarious, comfortable and genuine. Such a loss so early in a life. How I will miss him, how this planet will miss what he had to bring to the plate. What an extraordinary man, an extraordinary loss, and an extraordinary, inexorable mark he made in my life. How I loved this man.

I love you, Nathan, and will not forget you.

Cary Truelick

May 28, 2007

I was fortunate to have known Nate even though it was only for a couple years. He interned with our company in tv production and even starred in a series of fitness commercials. A talented actor for sure. Nate also had a great talent for working with people. He lived a life with much to be serious about, but it didn't seem to ever stop him from laughing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Mirum Washington White

May 24, 2007

Although I have not seen Nate in years, I know he will surely be missed. Please accept our condolences for your loss.

The subject of Nate came up last month during a wedding in Tucson.
Several of Nates old buddies from his Sport Assistant days at the UA Student Rec Center were in town for the wedding. As usual everyone had a Nate story. We all got a big laugh.

My fondest memory of him was he met every challenge. His "get it done" attitude will be missed.

Bob Holman

May 24, 2007

I had a very small part in Nathan's life in his very early years. I was lucky enough to have him on a little league team I coached. He was eager to learn, eager to excile, eager to please. It was my pleasure to have Nathan and his brother in my life.

I recently ran into him on the business side of our lives and he displayed the same qualities he had as a youth. I will miss him - he was a person of great character, compassion and loyalty.

Michele, Ryan & Austin Day

May 23, 2007

My thought and prayers are will you all. Know that each of you carry a part of Nate with you and may all of the great memories carry you thought this time.
Love,

Jesus Moraila

May 22, 2007

I only had the opportunity to work briefly with Nate. But, from my first introduction with him I sensed a very special inidividual with tremendous strength... he never showed any signs of the battle he was enduring. I am forever grateful for having the opportunity to meet such a positive and strong individual. His constant optimism and singing in the office will be missed.

Doug Goss

May 22, 2007

The news of this was the ultimate shock to me. I felt that Nate was a good friend and was my "go-to" guy when I needed a good laugh. He will be missed by all. My philosophy is that we now have one more person watching over all of us.

Todd Bright

May 21, 2007

I was never one that was good with words, so I know Nate would understand. It's been many years, but the fond memories will always stay with me. The best was in elementary school playing his baseball game at his house. My heart goes out to his family.

Emilie (Augustine) Speciale

May 21, 2007

The news of Nathan's passing came as such a shock to me. I knew Nathan in middle school and later we met again at Safeway when he was working for Wells Fargo. I have very fond memories of his quick wit and vibrant soul. He made school interesting and although we picked on each other, I always considered him as a friend. I hope I didn't disappoint him. It was an honor to have known him, he will be missed.

Michelle (Vidoni) Wenzel

May 21, 2007

Nathan was such an amazing person. It is evident in the wonderful messages that people have left in his honor. All of these passages have really sparked my memories of him – his warmth, humor, charisma, positive attitude... he touched so many lives. He was a good friend of mine in high school and even though we had lost touch over the years, I will never forget him. The world needs more people like him and it is a terrible injustice that he was taken so early.

I am so saddened by his passing and the thought that he will never be able to teach Gehrig how to play baseball, or do the things a father does with his son, but I am so happy that Nathan got to experience the wonderful joy and gift of fatherhood. His legacy will live on through Gehrig and I hope that Gehrig will grow up to be just like his Daddy! My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. I am so sorry for your loss.

Earl Marley

May 21, 2007

Your positive influence and loud swearing at your self on the ball field will be missed. I've never met such an up-beat person. Watch over us. Your # 6 will be remembered.

Sandi Kilian

May 21, 2007

Nate will forever be one of my favorite employees of IKON. He made me laugh, when I thought I was having a difficult day. When the rest of the world saw only the rain....Nate saw the rainbow. I was amazed with his ability to keep all of us "pumped up" when he was the one who really needed it. He got more out of 31 years than most people do in 70! I will miss his smile and endearing sense of humor for many years to come.

Jeff Zaporowski

May 20, 2007

In Memory of a Great Friend!

There are only a few people that come to mind when I look deep into the memory of childhood friends. There are only a few that I’ve known for all but a few years in my lifetime. Nate instantly comes to mind and a smile shortly after. If it wasn’t for playing sports together, it was getting into trouble as kids together. A notorious food fight in the school cafeteria comes to mind! That was a great memory! While a bit intimidating at the time, it is worthy of a laugh every time I think of it!

I have many memories of Nate when we played in sports. I always carried the inhaler for Nate when we were running the track or a race for his asthma. Learning about his love for baseball… The most recent memories of Nate when I attempted to teach him how to drive a manual transmission car only a few years ago… Good times…

Nate was and will continue to be a benchmark for all of us to attempt to achieve as an individual in life. Regardless of what life presented before him, he would never back down nor would he allow it to stop him from where he wanted to be…

My deepest condolences for the family he left behind. We should consider ourselves so fortunate to know such an outstanding individual in this lifetime. I know I do… It was an honor and privilege to know Nate.

All the Best,

Zap

Jared Marks

May 20, 2007

Althought it has been some time since I spoke with Nate...I have very fond memories. Nate and I went to elementary school together. We ended up running into each other over the years and I was lucky enough to cross his path at the U of A. Nate, you will be missed by many people that you never knew you touched. I speak on behalf of all of the Beta's down at U of A when I say that you were a great guy. "See you after the War.."

Fred Duran

May 20, 2007

I did not know Nathan but I recently lost my younger brother Perry to Cancer at the age of 35. I read Nathan's obituary and his courage, determination, and sense of humor reminded me of my brother. My brother battled cancer until the lord finally took him this past Mother's Day. Just like Nathan my brother did not go peacefully....he fought till the end. Please know I am sorry for your loss and know that Nathan and Perry are both in a better place...a place where they have no pain and walk in the kingdom with our creator.

Lisa Cain

May 20, 2007

I am a better person because of my all too brief friendship with Nate. I am stunned and saddened by his passing.

Chelsey (Herring) Peitz

May 19, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Nate. He must have felt so much love and support having a new baby and a brother that was ready to give whatever was needed to protect him. Like all quality people we lose in death, Nate will be missed deeply.

April McClanahan

May 19, 2007

I am so sad to know that the world is missing such a beautiful soul. Even though I haven't spoken to Nate since graduating high school, I have always remembered his kind, warm spirit and the way he would speak so openly and honestly. I recall some very interesting, funny and insightful conversations through those early years and feel so blessed to have gotten to know him in the little ways that I did. My heart goes out his family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Nate was really someone special.

Elias Vaca

May 19, 2007

Nate, You were my first manager trainee at abuelos. In the time we worked together Im positive I learned more from You than You from me...I just wish I would have told you. I'll miss you greatly!! P.S. Even though I live in LA again, I'll do my best to influence your son into being a Dodger fan like You still are!

Fay Beasley

May 18, 2007

Never having met Nate, but knowing him through my friend Virgie Coen, I felt he touched my heart as he battled for his life.I willed him to survive, and survive he has, through all the wonderful memories he has left with friends and family. Rest well Nate.

Bette Jefferson

May 18, 2007

Dear Nathan:
Now you are a soul set free, and I know that you will be with your family every single day. In the Master's plan, thank goodness, you can't see their sadness. They will always feel your presence, and your courage will give them strength in their grief.

You've taken the journey we all must take someday, but the sun set for you way too soon.

Please know how many people love and support your family and will be there always for them.
Bette

Aaron Portnoy

May 18, 2007

Nate was a wonderful friend and a true joy to be around during our time together at UofA. His spirit will be missed and my prayers are with his friends and family.

Joe Belmonte

May 18, 2007

My memories of Nate are those of happy times. Nate was always courageous in every battle he confronted and always remained focused and positive throughout. Nate was one of my first friends and made me feel welcome when I joined Abuelo's. Nate was proud of his work and his family life. I know he loved his wife deeply because he shared that with all of us, all the time. I am sure the birth of his son was the "best" day of his life and am saddened that he did not get the time he deserved with his boy.

Ken Elder

May 18, 2007

It doesn't seem that long ago that both Nate and Rachel worked for me at Tony Roma's in Tucson. It's hard to imagine a person so energetic and full of life passing so young. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family and close friends, especially Rachel and baby Gehrig. I wish you peace and comfort in this difficult time.

Edna Douglas

May 18, 2007

We feel privileged to have gotten to know Nathan and your family, during our own lengthy stay at the Mayo. Rachel, little Gehrig, Nancy, Bryan, Vergi and Aunt Rosie, our prayers and thoughts will continue to be with you all.

Shannen Wagner

May 18, 2007

Although I never got to meet Nate, Bryan has shared a lot of his stories with me. So full of life and always optimistic, I know what a great loss this is to your families, and to the world. May the love and support from your family and friends help you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Roger Zoellner

May 18, 2007

The first time I met Nate was at Glenn and Sherry's for Jessica s graduation , and we welcomed him into "our family" with the same open arms and loving affection that he has showed us each and every time since. He adored his family as we did him , and I look forward to the day when we meet again with that same smile and same open arms!Beardown! My heart goes out to Rachel and family at this time.

Pat Killen

May 18, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Nathan's family and the Butler family during this sad time.
Love to all of you,
Chuck and Pat Killen and family

Betsy Ploeger

May 18, 2007

Just seeing Nate's picture, I can still hear him laughing and doing his perfected impersonation of Christopher Walken. I have so many memories of Nate...from working w/ him at Tony Roma's in Tucson "back in the day", to living w/ him and Rachel and being a part of their wedding day. Nate accomplished so much and touched so many lives the short time he was here. Although he will be missed greatly, he will never be forgotten.
Rachel, Nancy, Bryan...you all are in my heart and prayers.

Laura Schahn

May 18, 2007

I'm so sorry for your loss. Nate will be missed.

Kristina Schneider

May 17, 2007

I never had the pleasure of meeting Nate and I'm certain that the stories Bryan has told me barely scratch the surface. I pray that you are able to find comfort in those memories and the loved ones who surround you.

Alexa Carrara

May 17, 2007

Nate's smile and giving heart will be missed. I know his family is giving the love and support his wife and son are in such need of... I hope Gehrig grows into such a loving and compassionate man as his father. My love and prayers are with the Goldwater family.

Amy Hill

May 17, 2007

Nate was a charming, funny and charismatic individual. He was crazy about his wife and baby, and he lived life to the fullest. I was lucky to have him as a cousin, and more importantly, a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with Rachel, Gehrig, Nancy and Bryan at this trying time...

Vance Wilson

May 17, 2007

My condolences on your loss. I was a good friend of Nathan's father Wayne, and I know how proud he was of his two boys, only to have his life cut short at a young age as well. Rest in peace, dear Nathan.

Eduardo Fiallos

May 17, 2007

Nate: I pray that your son grows up to be the same kind of man as his father was. You are missed.

Nelson and Kerstin Lampert

May 17, 2007

We bid a fond "aloha" to Nate from his friends in Hawaii; and we also send our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

Stephanie Blair

May 17, 2007

I met Nathan in high school, and was lucky enough to spend some time in college with him also. He was truly a joy to be around, with an endless smile and great sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this trying time.

Grace Yano

May 17, 2007

I feel that I knew Nathan although I never met or talked to him. Through his aunt, Rosie Batcheller, I've come to feel the loss, too. Been praying for Rachel and the gorgeous baby, Gehrig.

Evan Cohen

May 17, 2007

I will always remember Nate as someone who was able to make everyone laugh with his sense of humor and memory of off the wall movie quotes and inside jokes with his brother, Bryan. My fondest memories of Nate are the get togethers for the baseball All-Star game and how much he cared about his friends and family. He will truly be missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, son and other family members.

Beth Andrus Glenn

May 17, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of Nate's passing. He was an amazing person with a huge heart...the kind of friend a friend needs. In middle school and high school, we had many classes together. He brought fun to our projects and kept everyone smiling. My sincerest condolences to Nate's wife and son, and all those he leaves behind. Nate will always be remembered in Arizona.

Harvey & Cathie Sperling

May 17, 2007

For a young man we did not know but knew through Kim & Rosie, we extend our condolences and affection.

Julie Barnett

May 17, 2007

My deepest sympathies to all of you, may the Lord give you peace during this trying time. I knew Nathan through Bryan and enjoyed his quick wit. The brightest memory I have is of playing Pictionary with Bryan, Nate, Mom and my sister. If there's anything I can do, please ask.

Keri and Ben Oesterle

May 17, 2007

Our prayers are with Nathan's family. I did not personally know Nathan but heard much about him from my friend, his proud brother Bryan. Our prayers are with Rachel and little Gehrig we are so very sorry for your loss.

Heidi Mullady

May 17, 2007

Im so sorry to hear of your loss. Nate was a wonderful person and no one could ever replace him. You and the baby are in my prayers and if you need anything please call me.

Jeffrey Hawkins

May 17, 2007

It had been quite some time since I last spoke with Nate, but he was always a great friend to me and my sister. Whether making stupid movies together or playing basketball, he was always the same: Funny, Optimistic, Supportive, and Loyal. He had an amazing gift of gab and humour. (Who else could knock on Charles Barkley's front door and get a lengthy interview on Sir Charle's own couch?) He was, comically, about 8 years ahead of me. As a performer, I will never forgive him for that. I am still catching up on my Mel Brooks and Zucker Brothers Collections! He will be missed terribly. All the love in the world to those he leaves behind. We love and miss you, Nate. (aka: Slick, or The Asthmatic Leadfoot, or AuH20)

Monica Scarfo

May 17, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many wonderful memories of Nate and his brother from school. All of you are in our prayers. Take Care.

Bobi Bishop-Billetdeaux

May 17, 2007

Sorry to hear about your loss Rachel. I am sure that Nathan will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Let me know if there is anything that I can do.

Erica Valenti

May 17, 2007

I never met Nathan, but I have had the opportunity to work with his brother Bryan this past year. Bryan always spoke about his brother with a smile on his face. It is very evident that Bryan is proud to have Nathan as his brother.

Christy Sorensen

May 17, 2007

My deepest sympathies to all the family and friends. I knew Nathan in middle school and I have always remembered his vibrance and his sense of humor. He was a wonderful person and I am so sorry to hear of his passing.

Nicole Reddin

May 17, 2007

Nate was a wonderful person. He was so full of life and energy. He always made everyday at Abuelos memorable! I will never forget you Nate!

Matie Jorgensen

May 17, 2007

I send love and sympathy to you Rachel and pray you will find the strength to carry on, in spite of this terrible loss.

Kathy and Art Hanke

May 17, 2007

Nathan touched our family in a very special way. His mother and I have known each other since the age of 4, and she should be very proud of her beautiful son and his all too short life. Nathan lit up every room he entered...with his broad smile and lively personality. His love for his mother, his brother and his wife and son showed in every thing he did. We will truly miss him and feel our lives were enriched by his courageous fight and ability to live his life to the fullest.

Showing 1 - 85 of 85 results

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Nathan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Obituary Examples

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