Nathan B. Werner

Nathan Benjamin Werner, age 73, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, February 24th, 2024, at his home on Long Lake in Eveleth, Minnesota, after fighting Leukemia for 2 years. He was lovingly surrounded by his devoted wife Peg and cherished loved ones as he journeyed into eternity with our Savior.

Nate was born on November 6th, 1950, in Minneapolis, MN, to Violet & Earl Werner.  He grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from Washburn High School in 1968.  After high school, Nate attended the University of Minnesota, working toward a degree in Sociology.  Following 1 year of college, he answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in Dec 1969, and was honorably discharged as a Corporal in Sept 1971.  He saw combat in the Vietnam War and demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of adversity.  He served with honor and distinction, earning a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbons and Sharp Shooter Rifle Badge.  He took great pride in serving our country and shared many stories of his experiences with family and friends over the years.  Later in life, Nate pursued higher education again receiving a Bachelor’s Degree from Crown College and a Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies from Trinity University.  He also dedicated himself to serving his community as an outstanding postal worker for the U.S. Postal Service for 33 years, in the Hopkins, St. Louis Park, and Minnetonka areas until his retirement in the fall of 2016.

In 1976, Nate made a re-dedication to his faith in Jesus Christ.  This would shape not only his earthly journey but also his eternal destiny.  He embraced the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, acknowledging it as the payment for a debt of sin he could never settle on his own.  This transformed his life's path and had a lasting impact on everyone who would come to know Nate throughout his life.

Nate embraced fatherhood with love and dedication, nurturing his children Josh and Nena with care and devotion.  Upon joining in marriage with Margaret “Peggy” Nelson on September 3, 1993, he extended his heart and became an extraordinary stepfather to Rob, Meg, and Pete Campbell.

He took pride in his family and loved fiercely.  He especially found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren.  Whether it was playing with them, attending school, church and personal milestones, sports games, sharing stories at the campfire, listening, teaching how to be respectful and hardworking, and offering advice when needed.  Most of all, he always made sure they knew how valued and important they were.

Nate had the honor of serving others through multiple mission trips to Africa, Bulgaria, Ukraine, India, and Viet Nam where he engaged in biblical leadership training, evangelism, and outreach efforts.  He was an author with a published book, and wrote many Christian devotionals.  His dedication to spreading Christ's message touched countless lives.

Nate donned many hats throughout his vibrant life, embracing roles as varied as a postman, baseball player for the Minnetonka Millers, bowler, avid sportsman and outdoorsman, traveler, author, mentor, leader, chaplain, school bus driver, rancher, skilled bocce ball player, devoted dog owner, and undeniably, the best grandpa one could ask for.

He is celebrated for his sharp wit & compassionate nature.  He loved to make people laugh and was quick to give a compliment.  If there was ever disagreement, he still valued another person’s vision, thoughts, and beliefs in the matter.  He was bold, yet soft.  He was strong, loyal and supportive.  He never met half-way, he was more than willing to go the distance.  He was a hard worker.  His genuine affection and care for his wife, family, friends, and all who crossed his path were the hallmarks of his character.  He fought cancer with dignity, grace and incredible strength.  He truly was a remarkable person and we are all blessed that God put him in our lives to enrich, teach, listen, and guide us, as a husband, father, grandfather and friend to many.  A life well lived.  He will be deeply missed by many.

He is survived by his wife Peg of Eveleth, MN; sons and daughters: Joshua (Vanessa) Werner of Cambridge, MN; Robert Campbell (Leticia Ruiz) of San Diego, CA; Meghan (TJay) Johnson of St. Cloud, MN; and Peter (Rozy) Campbell of Eveleth, MN; grandchildren: Sage, Josiah, Elijah, Myla, Zarah, and Colev Werner; Paytin Johnson; Georgia, Alexander, and Olivia Campbell; his sister Virginia Doying of Victoria, MN; nieces Dani Werner (David Rathman) and Lori (Doug) Hanson; nephew David “Butch” (Darla) Werner; and other extended family, including former spouse Kathe Werner and the extended Tillman family. Many special friends who also cherish the memories of Nate’s love and laughter.

He is preceded in death by his parents Earl Werner and Violet Lindstrom, his brother and sister-in-law David & Jerrine Werner, sister Bonnie Werner, brother-in-law Dean Doying, his step-daughter Nena Tillman, and grandson Alex Johnson.

A celebration of life where friends and family can gather to honor and celebrate Nathan's life and legacy will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024. Services to start at 2:00 pm, with visitation 1 hour prior at Grace & Truth Bible Church 601 12th St. N. Virginia, Mn