Nathanael David Nystedt of Flagstaff, Arizona, beloved son & brother, left this world on December 23rd, 2023.

Nathanael was an unconventional teacher of unconditional love. Never taking a step or speaking a word, he taught surrender, trust, patience, and Gospel agape capital L love.

Nathanael touched people's souls. There was the cab driver who stopped to give him a dollar, and the woman who stopped to give him a hundred. The woman who walked across Scotland holding him in her heart. Young children who wanted to know his story. The man who gifted him the hat off his head. Many ladies, including his grandmothers, who made him blankets infused with love. Nurses, aides, schoolteachers, and therapists. His very first caregiver who loved him 24 years later. And more.

Nathanael was underestimated and resilient. He amazed. His rare & fleeting smiles lit up the room and were treasured by those who caught them.

Nathanael was born December 18, 1998, in Gallup, NM, and lived in Window Rock, AZ. He was baptized at St. Michael Parish in St. Michaels, AZ, and began preschool at St. Michael's Special Education School. He spent many years in Flagstaff public schools, graduating from Flagstaff High School in 2021.

Nathanael is survived by his parents, John and Annette; siblings Micah, Woods and Tyrin; grandparents Russell and Pat Nystedt of Albuquerque, NM and Marion Polt of Pierce, NE; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Lawrence Polt.

A celebration of Nathanael's life will be held on Friday, January 12th, 2024, at 2:00pm, at the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, 423 N Beaver Street, Flagstaff, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Flagstaff High School Sensory Communication classroom (fusd1.org/fhs tax credit donation, or 928-527-6041); Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona (sharingds.org); or a charity of your choice.

Nate The Great, you were the love of our lives and truly our greatest teacher.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at norvelowensmortuary.com