Obituary
Nathan O. Dethlefsen
Nathan Dethlefsen, age 46 of La Crosse, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, supported by his loving family and friends. Nate was born to Jane (Jakusz) Drogseth and Bruce Dethlefsen on April 23, 1971. He was raised by Jane and Greg Drogseth in West Salem, WI.
Nate was a talented bass guitar musician who had recorded professionally, and until recently played locally. He was also a creative photographer with a sizable following on Instagram that appreciated his beautiful or unusual images. Nathan enjoyed good people, good conversation, and good laughs. His edgy sense of humor and take on life was endearing to everyone who knew him. He adored and enjoyed his little niece Ellie immensely. He also enjoyed water exercise at the local YMCAs and his parents’ outdoor pool. He graduated from West Salem High School. Nathan was employed at IC System, Onalaska, WI.
Nathan Dethlefsen is survived by his parents Jane and Greg Drogseth; brother Alex (Vicky Luglio) Drogseth; sister Emily (Jacob) Klunk, niece Ellie Klunk; special friend Shelby Hathaway; father Bruce (Sue Allen) Dethlefsen; uncles Jim Jakusz, Mark (Janet) Dethlefsen, Paul (Lynn Mundinger) Dethlefsen; and many other relatives and friends. Furthermore, Nathan is dearly remembered by close friends including John Boyle, Matt Damon, Eric Hopkins, Ted Johnson, Heather Allen, Chris Zobin, Ron Rose, Kate Gaar, Doug Kornmeyer, Dan and Terri (YMCA), and many others.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents (Luella and Edwin Jakusz, Patty and Frank Dethlefsen, and Rose and Lester Drogseth) and his brother Willi Dethlefsen.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, March 17, 2018, at Myrick Park, 2000 La Crosse St, La Crosse, from 12 PM to 2 PM, with memory sharing and prayers beginning at 1 PM. Thank you to the many kind and skilled professionals at Gundersen Lutheran who cared for Nathan.
Bruce, Please accept my condolences, to you and Nathan’s mother and step-father. I’m so sorry for your loss. One should not have to bury one’s children, but sometimes it happens.
Dear family and friends of Nate,
Please accept my heart felt condolences. Nathan was one of the most beautiful people I have ever met. I truly love him so deeply. I always felt like I could ruthlessly be myself with Nate and that is the best feeling any human could ever experience. My thoughts and love are with everyone.
Jenny
A big loss for the world. My loss for never having known him. Hugs to all.
I am so saddened to hear of Nate’s passing. My heart goes out to all of you who loved him dearly. I have fond memories of him from school.
I know there are no words that will ease the pain you feel, the heartbreak that will never heal but only become familiar. My deepest sympathy. May your son’s memory be eternal.
Bruce, my deepest sympathy and condolences. Having lost two brothers last year, I can relate. However to lose a son or daughter ….. my friend, I don’t know what else to say apart from feelings for you. Peter