Nathaniel "Nathan" Brown

Loyal and compassionate, Nathan Brown held a special place in his heart for all people. Always willing to lend a helping hand, even to strangers, it was no surprise that Nathan had a wide variety of people who were fond of him. His loving family was immensely proud of the young man he was becoming. There is no doubt that he will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his warm spirit and generosity.

Nathan’s story begins in 2001 at the turn of the new Millennium. The Segway was the hot new mode of transportation. The songs of Santana, Rob Thomas, and Jennifer Lopez topped the Billboard Charts. Apple’s iPod revolutionized how the world listened to music and the Xbox made its debut. Closer to home, Ramone Brown and Rebecca Castagnasso welcomed Nathaniel’s arrival on October 11.

Nathan’s loving and cheerful demeanor was noticeable at a very young age. His soft blonde curls won him an award in a local contest at the tender age of two years old. With the family raising Clydesdales, much of his childhood was spent at the family farm. Every October they traveled to Lansing, Michigan with the extended family to show horses. Nathan enjoyed these trips even if he didn’t participate with the horses much, but he found ways to be stay involved with his family in other ways such as helping his grandpa change the oil in his truck or working in the family garden and making arts and crafts with “Gramma”. During these years, he became exceptionally close with his cousins who became known as, “The Crew.” They were all very close in age and often gathered at their “Grandma Honey’s” home. They could be seen rolling down the hill in the back yard, racing RC cars and riding bikes while sharing food and laughs.

Ambitious and independent, he started his first job at just thirteen years old detasseling corn. A rigorous schedule in the middle of the hot summers never phased him as he loved the money as well as the hard work. In fact, he worked each summer in the fields until the age of 18. He also took a job during high school with Little Caesars where he made many lasting friendships. Although he was incredibly articulate and intelligent, he was in jeopardy of missing graduation from Mattawan High School. With much encouragement and support as well as his own grit and determination, Nathan managed to buckle down. Not only did he earn his credits, but he was invited to give the senior send-off speech for his graduating class! Although they understood Nathan struggled with mental health, his classmates remember him for his huge heart and genuine concern for others.

After graduating, Nathan was excited to go to work at large research facility as a formulation’s specialist. He had some experience as a pharmacy tech in his educational years so landing this position was a perfect fit for him! He was happy to use his strong math skills and keep up with the busy pace of the field. It stretched his mind and gave him new goals and dreams. Always willing to share his knowledge, he connected with everyone from the boss to the janitor and especially enjoyed listening to their own stories.

Until he moved out on his own, he didn’t do much cooking, but always had a large appetite! Ramen noodles and peanut butter was his mainstay as well as spicy chicken patties and waffles. Nathan was especially thrilled when he discovered Hello Fresh; a weekly meal delivery service. The meal kits helped him learn to cook, alongside tips and tricks from his culinary-oriented sister, Nadia. With fresh produce from the family garden and intermediate recipes he was starting to get more creative with his skills in the kitchen! Cooking up a meal became something he looked forward to after a long day’s work.

In addition to cooking, Nathan held a wide variety of special pastimes. He was an avid video game player and over the years had collected about every console that had been manufactured in the last decade! His dad also loved to play games and would often join in online. Their love of gaming developed a special connection between them. Skilled in electronics and technology, Nathan, also known as “Nate Dawg” and “Nate Breezy” was drawn to mixing music in his auntie’s basement or playing D.J in a friend’s garage. He loved to rap and enjoyed following some of his favorite rappers; Chuwee and Mac Miller. Rapping whatever lyrics came to mind tapped into his creative energy and gave him an outlet from the day-to-day stressors in life. His musical taste had no boundaries though. Nathan enjoyed listening to anything from rap to the classic tunes of Johnny Cash.

Although he was always up for a good time, he was not a fan of large groups. Nathan preferred relaxing with his core group of friends and family over a bonfire or just hanging out together and making music. He kept his close-knit circle small, yet was always there for anyone in need. Gone too soon, Nathan leaves behind a wonderful legacy of genuine kindness for others. Respectful and helpful, he was a true gentleman, especially towards his girlfriends. His sweet and caring personality will be forever cherished and deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Nathan Brown, age 20, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, died on September 8, 2022. Surviving are his parents; sister, Nadia; grandparents: Tony (Maureen) Castagnasso and Doicenell Jackson; many aunts, uncles, “the crew” of cousins; and his beloved cat, Charlotte. Nathan was preceded in death by his grandpa, Jessie Jackson and many other loved ones from his extended family. Please join us for a Life Story Visitation from 3-4 PM Saturday, September 17, at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 269-375-2900. A Life Story Service will began at 4 PM. A reception will follow in the Life Story Center. Visit Nathan’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories and photos, and sign his guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to Gryphon Place.