Nathan Runyan

The open house celebrating the life of Nathan Runyan of Verndale will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, at the Alliance Church in Verndale. A time of prayer and sharing will begin at 6:00p.m. Burial will be held at a later date. Nate peacefully passed away at the age of 38 on November 9, 2024, at Abbott Northwestern Memorial Hospital surrounded by family. He stood his ground with remarkable strength after an aortic dissection two years ago, enduring surgery and a long recovery. However, two infections this fall within a month proved too much for his heart. Nate was born the third of four children, to James and Betty (Langer) Runyan on April 9, 1986, at Lakewood Hospital in Staples, MN. Nate attended school in Verndale Public Schools (2005) and Bemidji State University (2009). For many years, he could be found working on his grandfather’s farm cutting wood, building fences, or helping his dad and Grandpa Marvin keep things running smoothly. He loved working with his cousin, Brett, at Drastic Measures Brewing, often driving across the state for deliveries. He was rarely far from his brother Jay, quietly working alongside him to draw chuckles and laughter from those around them. Nate’s love for Minnesota sports, whether cheering on the Timberwolves, Vikings, or Twins, was best enjoyed from a comfy recliner. Also a huge fan of fantasy sports, he participated in family leagues and local leagues for many years. After his first heart surgery, golf with Jay and brunch after dialysis with his mom became routines that he enjoyed. Music spoke to Nate, with Kendrick Lamar and Eminem being a few of his favorites. He loved his cat Daisy, and he carried his nieces around until they got too big to carry. He was smart, smarter than he ever wanted to take credit for and the hard-working type that just put his head down and did the work. Those who knew him best, knew that Nate was a man of few words so when he said something, it meant something. They would also know that under that quiet exterior lived a complicated, witty and kind person he might not reveal freely. He was a pillar that held up his family that will not be replaced. Preceding Nate in death was brother, Brian Runyan; grandparents, Marvin Runyan, and John and Evelyn (Budig) Langer. Nathan is survived by his grandmother, Mary Runyan of Verndale; parents, James and Betty Runyan of Verndale; brother, Eric Runyan (Emily) and nieces Eleanor and Edith of Chicago; sister Amanda Tyrrell (Jakin) of Browerville; and brother Jason Runyan of Minneapolis. He is also deeply mourned by numerous uncles, aunts, cousins and cherished friends. Honorary urn bearers will be Nathan’s cousins.

Nathan Runyan

April 9, 1986 - November 9, 2024