Nathaniel “Nate”  McKenzie, Jr.

McKenzie, Nathaniel "Nate" Jr. Nathaniel “Nate” McKenzie, Jr., age 78, of Grand Rapids, was called home to the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, June 11, 2014. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathaniel, Sr., Marie Bannister and his oldest son, Nathaniel III. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Pamela; his children, Joanne McKenzie, Belinda McKenzie, Faith McKenzie, Marshall and Traci McKenzie, Douglas McKenzie; step-daughter, Vicki and Terry Wills; 11 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; Nate’s brother at heart, John and Ellen Osterhart; lifelong friend, Jim and Jan Quinlan. Nate valiantly served his country in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. He retired from Kent County after 35 years of dedicated service. Nate was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a dedicated and involved member of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church who shared his faith by directing Bible studies, RCIA Program, living a stewardship life, and many more activities. He was a member of the Serra Club of Grand Rapids. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday 11 am at St. Stephen’s Parish, 750 Gladstone Dr. SE, East Grand Rapids, with Rev. Fr. Mark Przybysz Celebrant. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday 2-4 and 6-8 pm at church and Saturday 10-10:45am prior to the service at church. A Vigil Service will be held Friday 7:30 pm at church with Rev. Fr. James Wyse. Military Honors will be held Saturday at 10:45 am prior to the service following the visitation. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to St. Stephen’s School or Sister Robert Anne Scholarship Fund at Catholic Central in Malik Haywood’s name (Nate’s grandson).