Nate Strand

Barnesville and the wider community are mourning the loss of a beloved teacher, coach, son, husband, and father, Nate Strand, who passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at his home in Barnesville, MN after a fast-moving cancer diagnosis.  

Nathan Curtis Strand was born on March 19, 1985, in Hutchinson, Minnesota to Curtis and Connie Strand.  He grew up in Stewart, MN, where he went to school in and graduated from McLeod West High School in 2003.  During High School, Nate played Football and was the Quarterback of the 2001 State Championship Football Team during his junior year.  He also played basketball (at the peer pressure of his buddies) and played baseball.  In 2007, Nate met Lauri Sczygiel at a family wedding in Portland, ND and within six months they were engaged.  They were married in June of 2009.  Nate went on to obtain his degree from St. Cloud State University graduating college in 2010 and became a teacher and coach at Barnesville High School.  
 
Nate's impact on the students of Barnesville High School is immeasurable. Throughout his career as a teacher and coach, he inspired countless individuals and left a lasting imprint on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. His dedication to his students extended beyond the classroom, as he also coached several sports teams including Trojan football and Trojan baseball and was part of the coaching brigade of the 2022 State Championship Football team. Nate's remarkable ability to lead both on and off the field earned him admiration and respect from all who crossed his path.
 
His commitment to education was complemented by his passion for sports. As a former player and coach, Nate had the unique experience of winning a state championship both as a player and later as a coach. His leadership skills shone brightly in these moments of triumph, demonstrating his unwavering determination and resilience.
 
Outside of his professional endeavors, Nate was a devoted family man. He cherished his wife Lauri and their two children, Daxton and Sophie. Together, they shared countless memories filled with love and happiness. From annual camping trips with Daxton in the Boundary Waters of MN to co-coaching their children's sports teams, having family night playing games together, and playing Madden football although Nate didn't like to lose.  Nate found joy in every moment spent with his family.  
 
Nate is survived by his wife Lauri Sczygiel-Strand; children Daxton and Sophie; parents Curtis and Connie Strand of Stewart, MN; grandmother Opal Strand of Mayville, ND; mother-in-law Betty Sczygiel of Audubon, MN; three sisters in law Cindy (Nick) Strand of Portland, ND, Cheri Sczygiel of Rolla, ND, Tracy (Tyler) Zierke of Moorhead, MN; as well as nieces and nephews Lauryn Zierke, Mckynlie Zierke, Brynlee Zierke; Ethan Strand; Ty Sczygiel; Owen Sczygiel; Max Sczygiel; aunts and uncles, cousins, other family and many friends.

Nate was preceded in death by two Strand angel babies; grandparents Roy and Letitia Bigwood, Robert Strand; and father-in-law Larry Sczygiel.
 
Nate's proudest accomplishments extend beyond his professional successes to include the profound impact he had on those around him through mentorship and genuine care for others. He will forever be remembered for his kind heart and unwavering support for all those who knew him.
 
A visitation will be held on Monday, May 27th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Barnesville High School Football Field followed by a Celebration of Life service on Tuesday, May 28th beginning at 11:00 AM in the Barnesville Sports Arena in the high school. The family encourages everyone to wear their Support Squad shirts or their favorite Barnesville Trojan apparel in Nate's honor.

Nate Strand leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication that will continue to inspire generations to come. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Strand Family. Donations can be made here: Nate Strand Fundraiser – Lend A Hand Up