Nathan G. Watkins

Nathan Watkins, 42, of Fridley, MN passed away on January 13, 2025. Nathan was born on May 20, 1982, in Eau Claire, WI, to Michael and Connie Watkins (Hagen), and grew up in the same community he would always call home.

A proud graduate of Eau Claire Memorial High School, Nathan went on to pursue his passion for accounting at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, where he earned his degree and laid the foundation for his future career. He dedicated himself to study for and pass exams earning the title of Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Throughout high school and college, he worked at Randy’s Family Restaurant, where he formed a second family of sorts. He was known for his hardworking nature, quick wit, love for his family and friends and his love of singing.

Nathan had a unique ability to make people smile, often with his dry sense of humor, funny t-shirts, and infectious laugh. Though he kept a small circle, he was deeply loved by those who knew him, always showing kindness, and a willingness to lend a hand. He took great pride in his nieces and nephews, his writing, and his work at Haworth & Company, where he loved helping others and was always quick with a joke.

In his spare time, Nathan enjoyed reading, using his creativity to write fanfiction, target shooting, fishing, and attending Renaissance festivals, where he delighted in the sense of community, history, and fun. He was an avid learner, and his enthusiasm for teaching others about his passions brought him joy and fulfillment. Above all, Nathan cherished his family and friends, always making time for those who mattered most to him.

Nathan’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He is survived by his parents, Michael Watkins and Connie Hagen (Rick), brother Ben Watkins (Lacee), sisters Libbie Nyarangi (Edwin), and Katie Mulera (Rodney), along with cherished nephews and nieces, Louis Mbaya, Vella Watkins, Sundae Watkins, Keziah Watkins, Cecilee Watkins, Collette Watkins, Henry Mbaya, Emma Mbaya, Maddox Nyarangi, and Mila Nyarangi. He is also survived by aunts and uncles Pat and Trish Watkins, Ed and Jo Allen, Tom and Laurie Bjerke, Arn and Jan Watkins, Ed and Cindy Watkins, and Ken and Cindy Stocker, as well as many cousins, friends, and co-workers who were touched by his warm spirit and caring heart.

A celebration of Nathan’s life will be held on Friday, January 24. There will be a visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. with a celebration service to follow at 3:00 p.m. Both visitation and celebration will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E. Fillmore Ave, Eau Claire, Wi 54701. To watch a livestream of the service click here.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations toward a park bench near Half Moon Lake in Nathan’s memory.

Though Nathan is no longer with us, his memory will forever be etched in our hearts. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the family with the arrangements.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nathan G. Watkins, please visit our floral store.