March 11th, 1976 – April 4th, 2026
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Nathan Lloyd Blackburde on April 4th, 2026, at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
Born in Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan to loving parents Lori Watts and Lloyd Blackburde, the young family moved around until 1983 when they settled in Thunder Bay, Ontario. It wasn’t long after moving to Thunder Bay when the family welcomed Nathan’s sister, Chandel. Nathan’s greatest childhood memories were eating KD out of the pot with his little sister “Kiddo” in his lap. A child of boundless energy, Nathan played hockey and football at high levels throughout his life and excelled. Nathan attended Sir Winston Churchill High School, then the University of Manitoba where he played football for the Bisons, and finally falling in love with food and attending Confederation College Culinary Management Program.
Nathan worked in the culinary industry for many years. He spoke fondly of many of the friends he had made and the deepest respect he carried for those he considered his mentors. A special thank you to our Wookie, Josh, who was there virtually everyday during his time at TBRHSC with giant bear hugs of comfort for Jess, and treats and stories that kept Nathan smiling.
Nathan’s love for food also led him to meet the love of his life, Jessica. Friends for many years, once they decided to be together you would never see them apart. In September of 2014 Nathan’s greatest wish came true and he and Jessica became parents to Madison. Never one to live with any regrets, Nathan and Jessica made it official and got married on April 1st, 2026.
Nathan’s focus for work began to change and he decided to try his hand at road construction. Nathan quickly found great satisfaction working physically. Working with construction companies namely Taranis Contracting and Nadin Contracting, he said he had finally found his place to retire among friends. Brian, you were more than his best man and best friend, he considered you his brother. Thank you.
We often referred to Nathan as our Superman. He was invincible in all ways until he was met with cancer. Never to be unexceptional at anything, Nathan broke records during his hospital admissions with his team often referring to him affectionately as “the anomaly”. Everyone that encountered Nathan commented on his intense desire to live. We want to extend a special heartfelt thank you to our angels on 1A, CMH and Oncology. You became our family throughout the most difficult time in our lives, and you will be forever in our hearts and not forgotten.
Nathan is survived by his wife Jessica Miller, child Madison Miller Blackburde, mother Lori Watts, father Lloyd Blackburde, sister Chandel Blackburde and brother-in-law Michael Martin. He is also survived by many aunties, uncles, cousins, and extended family.
Cremation has taken place. We invite friends and family to join us to Celebrate Nathan’s life on Sunday May 3rd, 2026, at the Davinci Center Lounge from 1pm to 4pm. If so desired, donations can be made in Nathan’s honour to Northern Cancer Fund or Ronald McDonald House.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
