Nathan John Zapotosky, known affectionately as Nate, aged 45, tragically passed away on Monday, March 4th, in the serenity of Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

Born on January 17, 1979, in La Grange, Illinois, Nate was the cherished son of John and Nancy Zapotosky. His early life was graced with a storybook romance; he met his beloved wife Brandy, in pre-school. Their childhood friendship blossomed into love, leading to marriage not long after they graduated from Downers Grove South High School. Nate and Brandy's union was further blessed with two daughters, Tully and Madi, who inherited his profound love for the great outdoors.

Nate's spirit was as vast as the Northwoods he adored. A master craftsman, he had a magical touch with tools, capable of transforming wood and metal into structures and machines, his handiwork ranging from the family's chicken coop to the revival of vintage automobiles. His talents were matched by his entrepreneurial spirit, founding and managing the successful Extreme Snow and Ice Control, which branched out into landscaping during the warmer months. As an industrial electrician who climbed to the foreman ranks, he was a respected member of IBEW Local 9.

A true outdoorsman, Nate relished hiking, fishing, ATVing, and snowmobiling with his family and friends. His passion for hockey and the restoration of old cars and trucks paralleled his affinity for adventure. Nate even reached the level of black belt in tae kwon do.

Nate's legacy lives on through his wife, Brandy; daughters, Tully and Madi; parents, John and Nancy; siblings, Andrew and Julie; extended family, including sister-in-law Pamela Zapotosky, sister-in-law Tiffany with Roberto Ortiz, sister-in-law Tisha with Kevin Rinehart, father-in-law William with Diane Boyd, and his adored nieces and nephews Vaughn, John, Lisa, Katie, Dylan, Samuel, Aubrey, Chloe, Bella, Quinn, Cassie, and Keegan.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Nate's life will be held at 1:30 pm CT on Sunday, March 10th, at Element Church in Hayward, WI. The family welcomes friends and loved ones to attend. The celebration is casual so formal attire is not required. If you are unable to attend, or In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to a family support fund in honor of Nate's legacy. https://gofund.me/2aa07571

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have journeyed alongside Nate. He is remembered as a loving husband, father, kind-hearted son, devoted brother, and loyal friend. Let us celebrate Nate by embodying his philosophy of 'Livin’ the dream'.

"Livin’ the dream" - these words encapsulate a life well-lived, one marked by love, kinship, and an unwavering zest for life. He will be deeply missed, forever cherished in our memories, and always inspiring us to embrace the dream he lived so fully.

Last Update: Mar 11, 2024 9:04 am CDT