Nathan Daniel Little

Nathan Daniel Little, age 30, of Dodge Center, MN, passed away unexpectedly on December 8, 2024, at The Mayo Clinic, St. Mary's campus. Born on March 19, 1994, in Rapid City, SD, to Todd Johnson and Andrea Little, Nathan was a devoted son, an incredible father, and a true friend to all who knew him.
A proud graduate of Rapid City Central High School in 2012, Nathan was active in the ROTC program, where he developed his strong sense of discipline and commitment to service. After graduating, Nathan proudly enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Hohenfels, Germany. During his time in the Army, he served with distinction and was honorably discharged in October 2015. Nathan continued his service as a member of the Army Reserves for two years, demonstrating his dedication to his country.
After his military service, Nathan worked as a steel handler at McNeilus Steel in Dodge Center, MN. Known for his natural craftsmanship, Nathan was an incredibly talented and hands-on individual who loved building and creating things, from cars and motorcycles to various DIY projects. His passion for working with his hands was a reflection of his deep love for learning and mastering new skills.
Nathan had many passions outside of his work. He loved fishing, kayaking, and playing Magic: The Gathering, hobbies that brought him joy and allowed him to connect with others. His kindness and warmth made him the perfect companion, whether on an outdoor adventure or working together on a project.
A true teddy bear at heart, Nathan was known for his compassion, honesty, and tenacity. His determination and strong-willed nature drove him to pursue his goals, and he did so with courage and intelligence. He had a soft side that he reserved for his family, and he loved them fiercely. Nathan was a devoted father who poured his heart into raising his children, and his family was everything to him. His love for his children was unmatched, and his legacy as a father will be remembered as one of his greatest accomplishments.
Nathan is survived by his parents, Todd Johnson (April Edwards) and Andrea (Kevin) Taylor, his beloved children, Cooper Little and Aiden Alves Gomes Frazao; sisters, Dejanna Little and Tessa Johnson; fiancé, Amalia Crowe; maternal grandparents, Stan and Kathy Little and paternal grandmother, Cathy Johnson. Nathan is also survived by his Godparents, Dave and Veronica Little; step-siblings, Alfred Hendersen, Teonna Taylor, Aiden Taylor, Lydia Taylor and Lizzie Schultz; maternal great-grandfather, Darrell Sturgis; future in-laws, Tonya and Mark Strelow, Baylee and Justin Higgins and their children, Raven Grise and Kora Higgins and by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Ronald Johnson; maternal great-grandparents, Geraldine Sturgis, Ruth Little, Bob Little and Edna Little; paternal great-grandparents, Alf and Luwella Olson and Beatrice Johnson; cousin, Jessie Johnson and stepbrother, Tyrel Taylor.
He will be remembered for his fearless spirit, his ability to make others smile, and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 am Friday, December 13, 2024 at the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, 1105 12th St. SE, Rochester. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date at the Black Hills National Cemetery.
To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.mackenfuneralhome.com