Sunday, December 18, 2005

Obituary - 6

See you soon
by Stephen Osterndorf

See I find comfort knowing you are free
but I don't understand why this has to be.
Nate you left us so incredibly young,
it had seemed as though your life had only just begun.
You were loved by all and will be truly missed even by those you chose to diss.
We used to have the greatest times together, in fact there's a couple I can't even remember.
Nate I know your in a great place with the Lord and the best part is I know you'll never get bored.
I hope while your up there you save me some room, cause big guy you know I'll be seeing you soon.

Friday, December 16, 2005

Sympathies - page 5

December 15, 2005
Although i didnt know him personally, i knew he was a great very out-going guy. He had so much going for him, being an excellent athlete and amazing runner. I'm so sorry for everyones loss, and I'll keep him in my prayers.

Amanda Felhofer (Germantown, WI )

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

Obituary - Newspaper


Nathan A. "Nate" Charles

Born to eternal life, an MVP of Heavens Trophy Case on Saturday Dec. 3, 2005 age 17 years. Beloved son of Nancy Charles and Louis Charles, Jr. Loving brother of Kelly, Nicole and Michelle. Proud uncle of Trey, Devon and Markiz. Further survived by many other relatives and friends. Visitation will be Fri., held from Noon until the time of service at 2:30PM at MILWAUKEE LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASIUM, 9700 W. Grandtosa Dr. Private committal service at Trinity Lutheran Church Freistadt Cemetery, which will take place on Sat. In lieu of flowers memorials to the family appreciated.

HERITAGE FUNERAL HOMES
Gillette Johnson, Johnson & Reiss
(414) 761-2750
WWW.heritagefuneral.com

Published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from 12/7/2005 - 12/8/2005.

The Beginning

These are the postings from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Obituary Guest Book for Nathan Alexander Charles, who lived from 11/4/1988 to 12/3/2005.

Sympathies - page 4

December 7, 2005
As I sit here writing this, I cannot begin to imagine the pain and suffering you are experencing right now. Being a student at Martin Luther, I have seen the grief and pain that has been brought about by Nate's death. Although we all know that he is in heaven having more fun than we can imagine, we cannot help but wish he were still here with us. Nate's locker is completely covered in posters, and they have overflowed onto the surrounding wall. There are flowers and a basketball wielding beanie baby on his locker, and most people who stop over there cannot help but shed a few tears. Nathan was certainly loved, and he will be missed.

Ashley Sorenson (Waukesha, WI )

December 7, 2005
Nancy,We're deeply sorry for your loss. We know how close your entire family is with Chris, Kathleen, Kristen and Alex and how much a part of their family Nathan was. We can't image losing a young son with such a great future in front of him. He was a great friend to Kristen and Alex. Please know that you're in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.George and Kim Kubiak

Kim Kubiak (Sycamore, IL ) gm@inde-news.com

December 7, 2005
My heart and prayers go out to Nate's family. He was such a sweet guy and I'm so glad I got to know him with the time i spent with him. I will never forget your son. He was the most sweetest guy I've met. I wont forget him ever and he'll always have a place in my heart. He is in a better place with God. I will miss him. R.I.P Nate Charles11/4/88-12/3/05

Sarah Montoya (Franklin, WI ) starrygirl0307@aol.com

December 7, 2005
To the Charles/Barno Family,You know I love you guys, and you have and always will be in my prayers. Nate was such a talanted, special and loving young man. I remember when I met him over 5 years ago, he was only 11, and he always seemed beyond his years in maturity. He always brought a smile to my face everytime I saw him. It brings me a lot of comfort to know that he is in heaven right now, and my mom is watching over him, and will be there for him until you guys see him again. Again, love you guys and I will always be here if you need me.Nita

Juanita Moore (Milwaukee, WI ) nitaschweiger@yahoo.com

December 7, 2005
As I sit here and try to find the words...I think to myself there are none. Nathan played football and basketball with my sons Nathan and Marshal,I sat next to Nathan at the football banquet, we met his Mom Nancy for the first time what a nice time we had, we talked about Nate's lifeguarding and college plans and curfews for when he got alittle older.That was a funny conversation! As you may tell Mom and son had different thoughts! We laughed alot. My heart skips a beat every time I think of the sadness you and your family are going through right now. I only hope in time the hurt will become less and the wonderful memories you have of Nathan will make you smile and warm your heart.He was awesome young man and I know your proud of him. We will keep your family in our prayers and Nate in our hearts forever. May God watch over your family in this very, very difficult time.God Bless,The Povlick's

The Povlick Family (Muskego, WI )

December 7, 2005
Loved ones of Nate: We are remembering you in thoughts and prayers. We have good memories of Nate and Daniel playing for Coach Klemp, etc. The Back Family.

Tom Back (Milwaukee, WI )

December 7, 2005
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Nathan. We did not get a chance to know him, but our son Matthew was a teammate of Nathan's at Martin Luther High School. Please know that we are sharing your grief and believe that Nathan, being a child of God, now knows the Glory of His Heavenly Kingdom. May He comfort you in your time loss.

The Herzfeld Family (Muskego, WI )

December 7, 2005
Our heartfelt sympathy to the Charles family upon the loss of your dear son and brother. May God continue to comfort you in the weeks and months to come. Your Trinity family is right beside you.

Erika ,Neal, Sigrid & Kurt Degner (Germantown, WI )

December 7, 2005
Words cannot express the saddness that I feel for your family. Your son was a classmate of my daughter(Brianna Blundon). There is nothing greater then the loss of a child, and if I had the words to give you to take away the pain, I would give them, to help you through this time of great sorrow. I did not know Nate, but Brianna spoke highly of him. There is another Angel in Heaven now, and a star shines brighter in the sky because of Nate. Find comfort in your family and friends. I have lost 2 family members this year and in Honor of Nate, I will light a red candle along with the 2 I planned on lighting for my loved ones this Christmas...God's Peace and Love be with you during this difficult time.

Julie Blundon (greenfield, WI ) julie5268@sbcglobal.net

December 7, 2005
My condolences to the Charles Family. I did not know Nathan personally. I only knew him through all of Trey's and Louis's stories. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Lisa Sujecki (Milwaukee, WI )

Sympathies - page 3

December 8, 2005
It's times like these that words seem so hard to find. We know all the right words to say but, stagnation sets in when it's time to put them to use. We know that God knows best and we also know that he said he wouldn't put more on us than we could bear. Sometimes it seems like we've reached that point where God looks like he forgot his words. The good book is one that doesn't lie, it can't lie because we serve a God of truth. When God formed Nathan he formed him with qualities that would impact people's lives. Nathan was given an assignment at which I believe he passed the test with excellent scores. His assignmnet was up and now he's resting waiting for his reward. God needed more flowers in his garden for he's always prunning, plucking out the weeds for a greater harvest. Nathan was a greater harvest. I will miss the smiling face that I would see when we all got together for a Charles celebration. Nancy and Louis, my prayers are with you. To the lovely sisters, my prayers are with you. To all that have had the chance to be blessed by Nathan's pressence, my prayers are with you. God is still in control and holding us all.

Remona Charles (Milwaukee, WI )

December 7, 2005
To the Charles family,Nate touched us all in so many ways that we cannot even express, but to me Nate was more than a friend, Nate was like a brother to me. Nate was a friend that you could talk to and he would listen, and he was someone that had a great respect for those he loved. It's hard to reflect on someone who left us so young but I don't mourn for Nate, because Nate is in such an amazing place right now he could not be anymore happier. I know that he is catching touchdown passes and playing one on one with the Lord. Nate was heaven-sent and seeing him with Trey was a remakable experience that I am glad I was able to enjoy. Nate was like a father to that kid and I have never seen anyone so affectionate towards their nephew. Nate I love you and I miss you and i would switch places with you in that car any day but I know that your in an amazing place and I hope you keep room open for me cause I will see you soon big guy and it's something I'm looking forward to. I love and miss you more than you could ever imagine!

Steve Osterndorf (Oconomowoc, WI ) sosterndorf@wi.rr.com

December 7, 2005
I am truly sorry for all that has happened, but I want you to know that my family and I are keeping you in our prayers.Nate and I have been close ever since we met and he truly has been a blessing in my life! It's very hard losing such a close friend, and he is definately going to be missed by me and also by many people at Milwaukee Lutheran. I am truly thankful for Nate and all the times he was there for me and I am going to cherish all the times that we had together!!

Maggie Bultman (Mequon, WI )

December 7, 2005
To the family of Nathan (or Nat) as we knew him up here in Cedarburg. I will never forget calling Freistadt to get Nat to come out and play basketball for Cedarburg. Wow, what a player....what a friend. He became an instant part of Cedarburg and we loved him dearly. Lee has had a great blessing having Nat as a friend and an inspiration. His laughter and banter was what I will treasure forever. I truly loved him and loved when he was around...his love, his attitude, and laughter will live on in all of us. He was a blessing and you should be very proud of the great son you raised and the lives he touched. Live now as Nathan would want you to, grieve, scream, cry, then live as if you are living the life he would have wanted.....a fun, adventureous, loving, caring life. I want to walk this road with you in pray and friendship, where two share the burden the load is lighter. I wish I could take the pain away. Please rememeber that Nat will never be forgotten, someone like Nat could never be forgotten. With much love and concern.

Lisa Lauters (Cedarburg, WI )

December 7, 2005
Nate was on my 4x400 meter relay team at Milwaukee Lutheran, and I loved him like a brother. I remember always having to get him to warmup because he always wanted to be with his friends. I always held his blocks for his 300M hurdles, and we would have so much fun. He was such an awesome kid! He was blessed so much with athletic talent and the ability to make anyone smile. He put everything he had in everything he did. He will be truly missed, and I will never ever forget him. My prayers are with all of his family and friends...

Dan Deutschendorf (Sussex, WI ) ddeutsch@cc.edu

December 7, 2005
Our sincere condolences to all of you. Nate played ball with Tyler for 2 years in high school and knew each other before that. Our hearts ache for all the pain you are going through, but there is a reason God wanted him. We all need to remember that as hard as it is. Our prayers of peace and understanding are with you all...The Bergners/Pattens

Wendi Bergner (Milwaukee, WI ) wendi423@yahoo.com

December 7, 2005
I'll admit, I didn't know Nate as well, or as long, as I would've liked to, but the 4 or so months that I went to school with him, was enough time for him to impact my life in a way I'll never forget. Nate was such a nice guy, a true sweetheart; he never had a bad word to say about anybody or anything. He was a friend to everyone, it really seemed. His smile, his laughter, his competitiveness in sports, (as well as in our junior fitness class), and his companionship are going to be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies go out to Nate's family as well.

Jessica Pack (New Berlin, WI )

December 7, 2005
My prayers are to your whole family. I am greatly sorry for your loss of Nathan. When I first heard the news of his death, I couldn't believe it, because I didn't want to believe it. I justed talked to him on the phone Thursday, I didn't realize it was going to be the last time I would hear his voice. I'm so glad I did, and to think what you had to go through, it must have been tough. I remember seeing him at all of his track meets and to see the joy he had on his face. But just to think that he is in a better place right now, and that is what God had planned for him. I cry everyday to see his picture on my computer screen, but I know that he is with God right now, and that makes me feel great. Nathan will be greatly missed by everybody. I can't say enough sorrys and my prayers will be for you and the rest of your family.

Jenni Boettcher (Milwaukee, WI )

December 7, 2005
Nancy, I am so sad to hear about your son. My prayers go out to you and your family.

Maurya O'Dell (Miami, FL )

December 7, 2005
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know I speak for many when I say we know you have special strength and will get through this tragic time. Nathan was a special gift that you helped to create. I thank you as I will always have special memories of Nathan and the many times he I was lucky enough to be in his company. Thank you.

Sandy Sherretts (Waukesha, WI )

Sympathies - page 2

December 9, 2005
Words cannot express our feelings for the loss or Nate. As assistant coach of St. Peter Immanuel Basketball, all of our players that participated against Nate wish you all of God's Grace and Mercy. We know that God does not make mistakes. In Christ we pray for mercy and Grace to you and your family

Hugh Tole (Menomonee Falls, WI ) htole@wi.rr.com

December 9, 2005
I met Nate at YMCA camp when we were younger. He always was fun to be around, and he brought joy to everyone he spoke with. He always had a twinkle in his eye and a bright smile, which stayed with him, and it always brightened my days when I got to see him. I always enjoyed his presense. After we outgrew camp, I continued to see him around at basketball games and around the city, and he was such a great well-rounded and kind person and friend. As we entered high school Nate and I were able to continue being friends and whenever I saw Nate he always made life more fun. He will be missed; my deepest condolenses go out to the Charles/Barno family. He is in a better place now, and he will always be remembered for the wonderful person he was.

Ramona Hammonds (Brown Deer, WI )

December 8, 2005
Nathan was a great man, we had lots of fun times... you know, he was the type of guy that made you feel like you belonged in this world. He got along with absolutely everyone! i mean no matter what kind of day it was or how you were feeling, Nate would always find a way to cheer you up. He just had that attitude like "todays a new day, lets take advantage of it"... i can tell that he lived his life to the fullest. He had just one of those personalities that made every day brighter. I just cant believe that he has gone on to THE better place. Hes in God's hands now and hes safe, but its still hurts me deep in my heart to lose such a good friend. He was loved by everyone, especially the ladies... he had great manners... i mean i think i could go on and on about him but i might run out of space on this page. I just want his parents and all of his loved ones to know that we are all here for you guys and you raised an amazing child, one in a million. And for that im greatful that i developed a relationship with nate. He lit up every room he walked into. Even in track or football, he just always had that smile on his face that just proved to you that nothing ruined his moments... he was just the most kindhearted individual that has ever stepped foot in front of me. He's lookin down on all of us today and watching over us, we dont ahve to be afraid anymore... because hes safe with the heavenly father. Just always remember how great of a guy he was, because he'd drop his things in an instant to help you. I know that he will be greatly missed and i thank the lord above for giving me the oppurtunity to be in his presence... i know that he will be missed by everyone. He made me realize that lifes to short to pout about things, or fight, or anything else like that. Just live the day for what it is, get out and go do something... because lifes to short to sit back. Now i can finally have something in my heart to go back to when ever im having a bad day. I can now say, "hey nate wouldnt want us to be all sad".. because deep down he wants us to celebrate his life, and be happy that we have the chance to be alive. He will be deep within my heart and everyones im sure, and he will always be remembered by me as the guy who just made the best out of every day. Nathan Alexander Charles was an amazing leader, and now he wants us to carry on and carry out his way of life. I dont know how to end this because i love just thinking about his personality and boy i could go on for days... but everyone knows what he was about, he was a star. He was just an all around good guy and he will be missed dearly. Good bye my good friendR.I.P. Nateyou are in our hearts forever

Brandon Stoss (Milwaukee, WI ) brandon88526@sbcglobal.net

December 8, 2005
God bless the Charles Family, in their time of sorrow, our prayers are with you always.

Florence Culpepper (Milw, WI )

December 8, 2005
To The Charles FamilyWe have known Nathan since he was a baby and played with him when we were all young. When we heard about nathan it was so hard to believe that something like this would hsppen to such a young smart,talented and well like teenager. If you can remember when corey and I lost our mother and how hard it was for us to realize at such a young age that something would happen to such a wonderful person like her. Now nathan will get to meet his mothers best friend and share many great stories about their family that she has missed. But as you know that we all know how hard it is to lose a love one but we just have to remember that they are in a much better place then us and one day we will all be together. Sorry that we are not able to be at the funeral but our love goes out to all of you and we will both keep your family in our prays God Bless All Of You Love Heidi Williams and Corey Smith

Heidi & Corey Williams Smith (Milwaukee, WI ) Heidi.Williams@metavante.com

December 8, 2005
Nancy and Family: Please accept our deepest sympathy at the loss of Nate. He truly was a good natured, mature young man, & talented athlete. Our prayer is that with time your pain and sense of loss will ease. Always remember the good and happy times. He truly was a blessing!

Dean and Peggy Schoessow (Mequon, WI )

December 8, 2005
My prayers are with you and your family. Be strong and may God keep all of you close to his heart.

Herman and Yvonne Ross (Germantown, WI ) yross@legioninsurance.com

December 8, 2005
To the Charles family,We are so deeply sorry for your loss...there simply are no words, other than to say our thoughts and prayers are with you always......

Nick & Sandie Kondos (Crystal Lake, IL )

December 8, 2005
TO THE ENTIRE CHARLES FAMILY, I CAN NOT FIND THE RIGHT WORDS TO EXPRESS MY SYMPATHY FOR YOUR LOSS OF SUCH A WONDERFUL SON. MY DAUGHTER DANIELLE AND NATE WERE CLOSE FRIENDS AND NATE WILL TRULY BE MISSED BY OUR ENTIRE FAMILY. HE WAS ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO HAVE AT OUR HOME. GOD CHOSE AN ANGEL WITH A BEAUTIFUL PERSONALITY. I WILL PRAY FOR YOU DURING THIS SAD TIME AND MAY GODS ARMS HOLD YOU TIGHT AND GUIDE YOU WITH HIS STRENGTH. WE ARE SO SORRY, GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU. MICHELLE,RON,DANIELLE AND ALEX

MICHELLE ALLEN (MILWAUKEE, WI ) MICHELLE-ALLEN@HOTMAIL.COM

December 8, 2005
Louis Charles and family, there is no greater loss then that of a child. My heart breaks for all of you.Take comfort knowing Nathan is in Gods care now. God gave us a great gift 17 yrs. ago, when he blessed you with this beautiful child. He touched so many people in such a short time,he was a true blessing to all.Only God knows what Nathans job was here on earth, but i know he did it with a smile on his face and a song in his heart.He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, may God hold you in his loving arms in your time of sorrow.

Jennifer Roberts (Crystal lake, IL )

Sympathies - page 1

December 13, 2005
Wow. I can't believe that one of the most amazing guys I know has passed away. I think I'm still in denial about everything because he was so young and had so many things to look forward to in his life. The one thing that gives me comfort is knowing that all things happen for a reason and God had a reason for this and he is now in a much much MUCH better place and we will all be together will him again one day. I can't wait until I get to hug and talk to him again. He always gave awesome hugs. :) I can remember in 8th grade during confirmation class we would all tell Nathan that he was going to be Pastor Charles when he grew up. And going to Camp LuWiSoMo with him; wow, so many memories. He could always make you laugh and bring you comfort when you were down. He was such an amazing friend and was just beginning to turn his life around. I know he is up in Heaven looking down on everyone. He was such a strong-hearted guy and I know I'm not the only one to say that he truly touched my life and through all of this made me realize so many things. He tought me so much growing up and made me so strong in my faith and life in gerneral. I regret never telling Nate how cute I thought he was. He was such an amazing kid and I miss him so much and I'm never going to forget all of the fun times we had together and the encouraging talks we had. There is SOO much more I could say and I'll probably write in here again soon. Nancy, Lewis, Venton, Kelly, Nichole and ALL of your family.. you guys are all in my prayers and mean so much to me. I love you all and I can't imagine what your going through and I know I'm just a kid but I'm still here for you and I want to let you know that you guys are all in my prayers. I want to do anything I can so let me know if there is ANYTHING I can do. I don't think there's anything at your house that I've left behind but since you said I could come over anytime, don't be surprised if me and a few of mine and Nathan's friends stop over. We all miss Nate and are praying for you. FOREVER in our hearts, NEVER to be forgotten <3

Amanda Tuhy (Germantown, WI )

December 13, 2005
Nancy and Family-I am so sorry for the death of a wonderful person. As you've heard a million times already he will be greatly missed. I still don't want to believe it but God is telling me I have to. Nate is in a much better place and thats how i deal with the fact he's gone. You have so many people who are hear for you and will always be here for you and your family. We all need to just stay strong. We ask ourselves why did God have to take such a young and handsome man. As Nate's dad told Amanda, Tessa, Brittany, Brittney, Danielle, and I the night we came over to your house...God needed him for something else. He had a more larger plan for Nate than what we all wanted for Nate. Nate will always be with each and every one of us..not in front of us to see but to feel in our hearts. I'll make sure to keep in touch Nancy..God Bless and take care.

Anna Sanicola (Colgate, WI ) iljhaes@yahoo.com

December 12, 2005
To Nancy and FamilyI would never state that I know the pain you feel; nothing could be further from the truth. I know we all question "WHY" but we know that Our Heavenly Father is the only one with the answers and we must trust what he does.It is always said that God will not give us any more that we can handle and often times we all feel that we are being tested and somehow we all seem to survive because God is always at the head of the line leading our paths to better places and I know at this time your son/brother is in a better place.We always hear that the "good die young" your lose is another example of the truth...Remain strong and always believe.Linda Mann Young and Family

Linda Young (Milwaukee, WI )

December 10, 2005
Nancy and Family:I LOVE YOU GUYS...I Know its been a few years since we have seen each other but i think about you guys all the time and hope that one day i can make the trip to come visit...I am so Sorry that Nathan was taken at such a young age but he will be in your hearts forever...He IS your guardian Angel and will look over your shoulder forever...Love and Miss you, Heather, Matt, and Taylor

Heather Rosemeyer (Troy, IL ) hrosemeyer@hotmail.com

December 10, 2005
I could not believe what I was hearing when I got the call with this horrible news. So unreal...it still doesn't seem possible. My heart is breaking for all of you. I am so sorry that this has happened. Having lost my mom and dad I know how painful it is to lose someone so close. I have some comfort in knowing he is with them now. I'm so happy that I was able to be here to pay my last respects to Nathan and be here for all of you as you were for me when mom died. It meant a lot to me. I only wish I had kept in touch with you all better. I loved Nathan like a brother and will always remember him. What a gift he was to everyone!! Hang in there, I am always here for you. I love you all so much.

Brandi Descamps (Belleville, IL ) bdescamps@gmail.com

December 10, 2005
Nathan will be dearly missed by all of us. He was my other son and a brother to Sarah, James and Maria. They loved him dearly. Nancy and Louis I will always be there for you guys.Love yaBonnie

Bonnie Atlee (Milwaukee, WI ) bird518410@yahoo.com

December 9, 2005
Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with you. We didn’t know Nate but he touched our lives through Caitlin. May God guide you through this time of unbelievable pain and grief.

Charles and Kathy Tunks (Pleasant Prairie, WI )

December 9, 2005
It breaks my heart to read everything people have said. Although I have not personally met Nate, my son went to Camp Luwisomo with him. What a fine example he must have been to everyone around him. I can only hope that my son will have learned and cherish how short life can be sometimes. Our prayers are with your family.

Denise & Mark Gundzik (Waukesha, WI ) dgundzik@bader-rutter.com

December 9, 2005
Dearest Nancy and family, My deepest sympathies to you all. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers and have been since this tragedy. I know that there are no words to ease your pain, but my prayer is that our loving, Heavenly Father will draw you closer to Him each day and give you the peace only He can provide. I know Nathan is in heaven and finally at peace. I just pray that someday you will know God's plan for taking this special angel at such a young age. God promises He will give you strength to face anything if you put your trust in Him and I know you do. Lean on Him for guidance and not on your own understanding. If I can be of any help, please don't hesitate to ask. Call anytime, I am here. God's Blessings on you all.With deepest sympathy,Karla J.GishDirector of Student Accounts for The Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee

Karla Gish (Elkhorn, WI ) kgish@lhsagm.org

December 9, 2005
As a MLHS mom, my heart breaks for you at your loss. I believe there can be no greater pain. I will pray daily that God holds you in His arms. I am so sorry.

Melody Hahn (Milwaukee, WI )