Age 25, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, following a lifelong battle with mitochondrial disease. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on January 13, 2000.

Nathan enjoyed spending time with family, reading, collecting and playing board games, and studying history. He appreciated the fine arts, performing with his sister in musicals through Homeschool Performing Arts while his parents played in the orchestra pit. He also had a great love for animals, especially the horses he rode and groomed at the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center in Augusta, MI. Following in his late sister’s footsteps, he took up a volunteer position with explore.org, operating live online nature cameras around the world from the comfort of his home.

Throughout his life, Nathan’s love of Jesus Christ never wavered. When many would have cursed God for their afflictions, he remained steadfast, encouraging others as he was able. He fought for his faith as he fought against his disease, proving himself always a good and faithful servant.

His family would like to offer their deepest gratitude to Dr. Jessica Schnell, Dr. Tim Taylor, Drs. Grzegorz and Dorota Telega, Dr. Elizabeth Moberg-Wolff, Dr. John Humphrey and his wife, Laurie, Dr. Stephen Humphrey, Dr. David Semler, Dr. James Birmingham, Dr. John Schuen, and Dr. Fran Kendall, as well as the nurses and staff of the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, who fought so hard to give Nathan the best possible quality of life over the last several years. They also warmly thank Uncle Chris and Aunt Sandy Hoffbeck and family, Pastor Jonathon Krenz and family, Pastor Brandon Koble and family, the singles ministry of Northeastern Baptist Church, Portage Pharmacy, Galesburg Pharmacy, Zane and Jeri Rogers of Indiana Goldens, who provided Nathan’s service dogs, Humphrey and Ranger, and numerous providers for their medical, emotional, and spiritual support.

Nathaniel is survived by his parents, Douglas and Tamera Martin of Galesburg, Mich., his grandmother, Brenda (Charlie) Staples of Sun City, Ariz., and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his sister, Madelaine Martin, and his maternal grandparents, Norm and Nancy Zomer, and his paternal grandfather, James Martin.