Nate was passionate and full of energy. He lived life fully and did everything 100%. Nate always wore a smile on his face and was a friend to anyone in need. Ruth J. described Nate as a man who did not make acquaintences, he made friends. Nate loved to sit in Starbucks and befriend anyone who walked in the door. Nate loved life, work, his family and he loved to play. Nate's passions included God, history, rock climbing and helping others to learn to trust. He loved being a father and referred to Matthew (his 6 year old son) as his miracle.
Nate's life was expressed in many roles: co-worker, friend, father, brother and friend. Everyone who came into contact with Nate has a story to tell. You are encourage to share your thoughts and tell Nate's story from your perspective. Please tell your stories of Nate.
Nate was a delight to me. It was obvious that he loved my precious niece. Here are some reasons I thought they were great together: 1. They both loved Jesus: Ruth was a Young Life counselor and she and Nate studied scripture over the phone every night together, led Bible studies together and encouraged one another. 2. They were good emotionally for one another: they were both goofy and loved loud laughing; Nate also was able to support Ruth when she was sad and Ruth supported Nate in loving his son, Matthew. 3. They both loved the out of doors: Whether it was rock climbing, hiking, camping, running, swimming, biking, Ruth and Nate did it together and helped others experience the self confidence of these activities. 4. They were devoted to each other: Nate held himself accountable to being a Christian boyfriend by attending men's groups and receiving regular counsel. He romanced Ruth on a regular basis [the story of their engagement is so sweet]; Ruth fought for Nate and stood up for him, walking with him through a job loss and an sports accident. She loved him and she loved Matthew as her own, making room in her heart for both of them. 5. They would have been great parents together: The first time I met Nate, he came to the rescue of my great nephew after he threw up. Nate immediately scooped him up, vomit and all, helping me get him into a tub, then gently washed the vomit covered little shoes. He did all this without being asked. Ruth continues to love Matthew, wanting to keep him safe and hoping to find a way to provide for his future. 6. They loved each other, warts and all. 7. They worked hard to overcome issues. 8. All you had to do was see them together and you knew they were a match. I love you, Ruth and I will miss Nate.
ReplyDeleteNate was a kind and helpful person, who was ready to jump up and be available when something was neeeded. He loved Ruth, and he loved Matthew. He would not leave California when he couldn't find a job, because he wanted to be there for his son. I respect and honor Nate for his life of love and faith. My love and prayers are with Ruth and Matthew in this tragic loss.
ReplyDeleteThe first time I met Nate was after he drove a long way from LA to San Francisco to be with Ruth and meet two of her friends (me and my husband) imported from the Midwest. Even after work and a long drive, he had more ENERGY than either of us after a week of vacation. I asked him one question about rock climbing and his eyes lit up and he got out his gear to demonstrate. I never thought God would make someone with as much energy and enthusiasm for life as Ruth Jarrett, but I was proven wrong the night I met Nate. His enthusiasm for life included living out his faith in God, and loving those God put in his life.
ReplyDeleteSo today is a year since we lost our friend Nate. One of the things that we always loved about Nate was his passion/love for life. He was always very on fire for life no matter what was going on around him! We were very fortunate to spend some time with Nate, Ruth, and Matthew. Those were times that we will never forget...from apple picking in Oak Glen, to game night, or even just changing the oil/brakes on cars. Nate was a great dad, a great friend, a firm believer and just an amazing person but everyone already knows that. One thing that I will miss the most about Nate is the way he was able to make Ruth happy. She would always glow when they were together! Can't wait until we meet again bro....
ReplyDelete...from the Jarrett's.