Nathan D. Kehrein, son of Lonni and Glen Kehrein, died tragically at his Chicago home May 14. He was 31 years old. Kehrein is the son of the Executive Director of Circle Urban Ministries, a faith-based social service organization in Austin. He was born at St. Anne’s Hospital January 13, 1979, during the biggest snowstorm in Chicago history.
Kehrein grew up in Chicago and graduated from Lane Tech High School in 1997. During his years there, Nathan played football, starting on the varsity team for three years. He was elected a member of the 1996 All-City All Star Team and was named defensive player of the game.
After graduation, Nathan enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He was honorably discharged May 16, 2002. Nathan was a member of Rock Church and played basketball with Bo Delaney and the Wolf Pack at Circle Urban Ministries. Transformation Crusade Ministries of Rock Church and Men in Action of Zion, Illinois helped mold his manhood.
Kehrein enjoyed the outdoors, including fishing for Northern Pike in Canada and hunting deer with bow and arrow. He bred and raised pit bull terriers. He enjoyed a deep and close relationship with his brother Cy, nephew Sean David, and niece Jessie. He also enjoyed his time in his family’s cottage on the Illinois River in Peru, Illinois.
During his teen years, Nathan battled an undiagnosed mental illness that apparently developed into a deep depression. This pain and desperation finally led to his death.
Nathan is survived by his loving parents and brother; plus two sisters, TaraDawn (Ryan) Knull of Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Chelsey Angela (Sean) Powell of Kankakee, Illinois; his niece and nephew. He also leaves to mourn, his paternal grandmother, Lynda Kehrein; and maternal grandfather, Bert Bulkley; plus aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of friends from all walks of life.
Visitation is 5:00-8:00 PM, Friday, May 21, at Rock Church, 5626 West Washington Boulevard. Funeral service begins at 10:30 AM at Rock Church on Saturday, May 22, officiated by Rev. A. Lincoln Washington. Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.
I am so deeply saddened by this news. I grew up with Nathan, attending Andrew Jackson Language Academy with him since the 2nd grade. I have fond memories of school as well as trips to Michigan, his house, my house, and the homes of other mutual friends. I send my deepest condolences to his father and mother, each of whom welcomed me into their home with open arms. I write this from my home in Anchorage, Alaska, knowing that the geographic distance will not keep us from reaching each other. Mr. and Mrs. Kerhrien, I will speak with you soon. Nathan will always be with us.
ReplyDeleteSincerely,
Balam J. Mendez
Mr. and Mrs. Kehrein,
ReplyDeleteI knew your son while we were stationed at Edwards A.F.B. Nate was a really good guy, down to earth, and a lot of fun to be around. Nate will be missed by us all. Sincerely, Leland Krelle
I was stationed with Nate at Edwards and we worked together at confinement. He was a great guy. May his soul rest in peace.
ReplyDeleteMichelle Loewenstein Pierce
Mr. and Mrs. Kehrein,
ReplyDeleteI met Nate through a mutual friend right before he left for the Air Force. We kept in touch for most of his time there and then I talked to him a few times when he got out. I only had the opportunity to see him once after he was discharged from the Air Force. He was a great man and brought joy to all of our lives. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed.
He was a loving brother and son. We will miss him for the rest of our days on this earth, until we are able to see him again. I love you Nate!!!!
ReplyDeleteYour lil' sister,
Chells