Nathan Douglas Witte

Born on May 24, 1976, in Tyler, Texas, to Douglas Allen Witte and Mildred Knape Witte, his life was marked by love, adventure, and a rare ability to truly see and appreciate the good in everyone he met. Nathan had a remarkable gift for connection. Whether with family or friends, he could meet someone at a gathering and, within minutes, be deep in conversation, so at ease and engaged that anyone watching might assume they were lifelong friends. His openness and sincerity made people feel truly seen, and he always remembered their names and something special about them. He cared deeply about others’ stories and hopes, inspiring all who knew him to slow down, listen more deeply, and meet others with the same warmth and generosity that he so naturally offered.

Nathan’s warmth touched everyone he knew. He was an excellent friend to many, always ready to listen, share a laugh, or offer support, and his family was at the center of his life. The Fourth of July and Christmas were his favorite holidays, and he loved spending time with everyone. We all remember how meaningful it was to watch him hand out the gifts he had chosen for each person. He cherished every gathering and celebration, always bringing laughter and happiness to those around him.

His early years were spent in Tyler, Texas, where he attended All Saints Episcopal School, Gary Elementary, Hogg Middle School, and Robert E. Lee High School. Nathan’s love for music was evident from a young age. He played the cello in both the school orchestra and the Tyler Youth Orchestra, and traveled to Dallas on many Saturdays for cello lessons. He also participated in the children’s choir and scouting programs at First Presbyterian Church, where he was baptized. Later, he attended Tyler Junior College and Grossmont College in San Diego, California.

He loved the outdoors and, as a child, spent time hunting with his dogs and helping out at the family ranch. He took pride in being in charge of the hay and feed for the cattle and loved giving names to the new calves. The name we all remember most is the one he gave to his bull, Eagle Fire Double Sky. At age nine, he caught a 12½-pound catfish and was proud to be photographed with his catch in the local newspaper. He loved the lake his whole life, whether fishing, relaxing, or simply enjoying the peace and beauty of the water with family and friends. Nathan also cherished family trips to national parks, where he appreciated the beauty of places like Yellowstone, Glacier, and Banff.

Nathan gravitated toward things that were artistic. In his early twenties, he lived in Los Angeles, worked at a recording studio, and began making art. His creative spirit touched many aspects of his life. He had a talent for home renovation and construction projects, bringing imagination and skill to every space he worked on. Art remained a passion throughout his life, and he created paintings and drawings that reflected his unique perspective, including a large, multicolor epoxy painting, over an inch thick and a true thing of beauty, that took him several months to complete.

Known for his rare and wonderful sense of humor, Nathan brought laughter and lightness to those around him. His wit and joyful outlook were a source of comfort and happiness for family and friends alike.

His life journey included facing personal challenges that deepened his empathy for others. In recent years, he worked alongside his mother with the national organization NAMI, offering compassion and understanding to families navigating mental health struggles. His patience and gift for meaningful conversation touched many lives.

Nathan’s boundless energy and deep faith were a source of strength and joy to his family and friends. He is remembered for his sincerity, his ability to connect with others, and his unwavering belief in the goodness of people.

He is survived by his parents, Doug and Mildred Witte of Tyler; sisters Emily Horton (Jason) of Tyler, Monica Saunders (Jeff) of Grapevine, and Madeline Johnston (Dale) of Parker; brothers Kevin Witte of Tyler and Gareth Witte (Morgan) of Austin; nephews Grant Saunders, Brice Saunders, Corbin Glass, Dylan Glass, and Holden Witte; nieces Hannah Stewart (Caleb), Megan Glass, Sydney Saunders, and Nora Witte; uncles Robert Pat Witte (Patty), William Bill Witte (Rebecca), Mike Witte, and John Witte (Karen); and numerous cousins.

There will be no public funeral ceremony for Nathan. All services will be private, as the family wishes.