Obituary published on Legacy.com by Caring Cremation Services on Dec. 11, 2025.
**Nate was only afraid of ONE thing. Death. Now he is afraid of NOTHING.**
Nathan Allen "Nate" Detzer, Sr., age 53, passed away on November 22, 2025, in
Toledo, Ohio, the city where he was born on June 18, 1972.
A proud and devoted member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.) Local 24, Nate found his calling as a stagehand. He loved his work deeply and gave it his all-his dedication and skill made him a valued hand not only in his home local but also to other locals who called upon him when they needed someone they could count on. His career was cut short after an accident in 2016 forced him into early retirement, but the pride he took in his work never faded.
Before joining the union, Nate worked in construction, helping frame houses for the Toledo HUD program-another role he approached with care and integrity. He also spent time as an Iron Worker and was part of the crew that helped build the early stages of the Veteran's Glass City Skyway Bridge. No matter the job, Nate brought pride, strength, and a sense of purpose to every task he undertook.
Outside of work, Nate lived life with passion and joy. He loved kayaking-especially when it meant exploring new waters with his dog Yoshi by his side. Never one to be confined by limits, he even upgraded his kayak with a motor and custom sail so he could venture beyond rivers into open lake waters. Nate believed in movement-physically, emotionally, spiritually-and standing still was never an option.
He had a deep love for disc golf and excelled at it during his prime years, taking first place in several competitions. Even when time became scarce in later years, he could still
land an ace or birdie with ease. Music was another constant in his life; if there was a concert nearby, Nate wanted to be there. Especially during summer months, you could hear music drifting from down the street as Nate jammed out in his room-always playing that perfect tune.
Nate's generosity and kindness were legendary among those who knew him. He believed in creating joy for others and sought a kind of utopia where everyone could feel included and cared for. If it was within his power to provide for someone, he did-and often it was.
After surviving a near-fatal motorcycle accident, Nate's perspective on life deepened further. He opened himself up more fully to those around him, allowing people to see the depth of his heart and soul. Trustworthy and reliable, Nate's word was as good as gold. His resilience was awe-inspiring; no matter what challenges came his way, if someone needed him-or if responsibility called-he rose to meet it. He overcame it.
When work finally took a step back after years of physical labor and commitment, Nate embraced one of the most meaningful roles of all: being "Best Dad Ever." He stepped into that role with warmth and devotion that will be remembered forever. He formed tight bonds with both of his kids. His absence will be felt deeply.
Nate is lovingly remembered by his life partner Wendy Collier; son Nathan Detzer Jr. (uneventful creature); beloved child Sophia Detzer; mother Judy Detzer (Bruce Goetz); uncle Jay Detzer; sister-in-law Theresa Collier (Jay Castor); nephews Brian Simon Jr. (Maya
Wymer) and James Simon (Carey Suzor); niece Madisyn Simon (Nolan Guzman); great-nephew Nolan Guzman Jr.; aunt Joan (Don) Glore; and numerous cousins.
He joins in rest his grandfather Harry Detzer, Jr.; grandmother Betty Detzer; uncles John Detzer, Jeff Detzer, and James Detzer; and father Dwight Georgia.
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