Nathan Joel Stanley

Nathan Joel Stanley

October 26, 1959 - December 18, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Nathan Stanley on December 18, 2025 at the age of 66 in Minneapolis, MN.

On October 26, 1959, Nathan was born to parents Neil and Nancy Stanley in Chicago, Illinois. He touched the lives of many with his talent and disarming wit. Nathan was a generous friend and possessed a creative mind, and an empathetic heart. A talented pianist, music was not just a skill for Nathan, it was his passion and his language. Through music, he expressed emotion, creativity, and connection, touching the lives of those who had the privilege of hearing him play. When he was a teenager, he played in restaurants and supper clubs in Northern Wisconsin. Those who knew him will remember his determination and the beauty he brought into the world through his music.

Later in life, that same creativity found new expression through woodworking. Carving beds and furniture, he allowed his music to flow into his craft. He used his carpentry skills to build beautiful bars and pubs inspired by his travels to Ireland, England and Scotland. Each piece reflected his artistry, attention to detail and appreciation for tradition and warmth - spaces meant to be gathered in, much like his music, brought people together.

Nathan was also a devoted reader and lifelong learner. His library was filled with Russian classics and biographies that he returned to time and again. Tolstoy, Dostoevsky and Gibbon held a special place on his shelves, and Kenneth Tynan was a particular favorite - authors whose depth, wit and insight resonated deeply with him.

Nathan was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Derek Stanley and nephew Ryan Stanley. Nathan is survived by sister Cheryl Williams, sister Beth Vernon, and brother Jason Stanley, as well as nephew Ross Hutto, nieces Alexa Lister, Annie Zager, Megan Stanley and Zoe Ramsey, a grand-nephew and eight grand-nieces.

A celebration of life will be held on January 10th, at 2pm at The Local in Minneapolis, MN

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to an animal shelter of your choice.

Though he is no longer with us, Nathan's music and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.