Nathan Robert Keller, age 45, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at the Mayo Hospital in Rochester. He was born on May 25, 1980, at St. Andrew’s Hospital in Bottineau, ND to Bruce and Kathy (Marquardt) Keller.
Nathan’s early life took him across the country, attending schools in Bottineau, ND; Colorado Springs, CO; Farmington, NM; and Thief River Falls. A bright and engaged student, he excelled both academically and artistically—earning distinction as a National Honor Student and participating in swim team, drama club, band, and choir. He graduated from Lincoln High School and went on to study Plant Biology and Environmental Science at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter.
His love for nature and service led him to AmeriCorps, where he contributed to park projects in California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah. Later, he worked with the park service and then at Pacific Gas and Electric. Driven by compassion and a desire to help others, Nathan transitioned to healthcare, earning a degree in Radiologic Technology from NDSU in Fargo, ND. He worked at Sanford Hospital and eventually joined Mayo Clinic, where he served for six years and volunteered in cutting-edge imaging research.
Nathan’s spirit thrived in the outdoors. He found joy in hiking, camping, reading, and learning. Above all, he cherished time spent with his dogs, Helen and Herbie. His gentle presence and curious mind touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He is survived by his devoted parents, Bruce and Kathy; his sister, Shannon (Ryan) Galbreath; his cherished niece, Lindsey Grace; aunts and uncles, Marlys (Gary) Walker, Carol Johnson, Dan (Connie) Marquardt, Jayne Morrison, Matt (Deneen) Keller; and several cousins and friends.
Nathan is preceded in death by his grandparents, C.R. and Wilma Keller and Wesley and Delilah Marquardt; his uncles, Steve Keller and Don Morrison; aunts, Karen Keller and Marlene Marquardt; and several other loved ones who now welcome him home.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls. Visitation begins at
4 p.m., on Monday, July 28, 2025, with the service following at 6 p.m., with Reverend Kristin Ostercamp officiating.
Nathan’s legacy lives on in the kindness and compassion he showed and the lives he touched.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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