Nathan L. Yurgin

Nathan Leigh Yurgin went to his heavenly home on Sunday, March 10, 2024. He was a beloved husband, wonderful father, cherished Grampy, and favorite uncle.   He was loved by so many in his 81 years and his passing was unexpected.    

Nathan, who also went by his middle name, Leigh, was born in Chicago, IL to the late Constance A. and Alice L. (nee Bauer) Yurgin.   He was married to his high school sweetheart, Phyllis (nee Jalasky), for 60 years.  He said from the moment he saw her, he knew he was going to marry her.   They raised a beautiful family together; a son, Leigh (Michelle) Yurgin and their children Nathan and Caleigh; and a daughter Susanne (Jeffrey) Popaeko and their children Jakob and Alexander. He was a dear brother to his only sister, the late Catherine (Emery) Baxter; loved uncle of the late Jeff (Robin) Jurkiewicz and son Philip Duckworth; Patricia Baxter, Michael Baxter and Gregory Baxter.     

Nathan retired from a 45-year career in the printing industry.   He was very proud to be a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and as a Silver Cross Hospital volunteer for over a decade, he was known as the friendliest shuttle driver who could always bring a smile to your face. He loved fishing, boating, playing poker, traveling, gadgets, aliens and space-related things, high school football, watch collecting, fireworks, swimming pool volleyball, craft beer, photography, drawing and playing bags with his family. He always had great advice and could fix pretty much anything. He enjoyed eating out and was a bit of a tequila connoisseur. He attended every single event for his grandkids, whether it was sporting events, concerts, musicals, graduations – any occasion he could proudly cheer on his grandchildren, he was there. He was deemed a Marching Band Super Fan beginning in 1983 rooting on his daughter, and then through the years with his grandchildren - watching them perform became one of his greatest joys.  He enjoyed taking on the role of “Grampy sitter” for grandkids, pets, and houses, as well as being the family airport shuttle driver.  His answer to any request was always “absolutely!” He was spiritual and looked forward to celebrating family traditions including all holiday gatherings, every birthday, the 4^th of July parade and party, Frankfort Fall Fest, annual Klaus’ family dinner, and so many, many more. There was nothing more that he LOVED than spending time with his family. Always described as “one of the good ones,” he will be missed by all who saw the twinkle in his eye, his young-at-heart outlook, his sense of humor, silliness, and kindness, and by all who loved him. As he would always say. . . .

“It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later”

A memorial visitation will be held at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 102 E. Francis Road in New Lenox, on Sunday, May 19, 2024 from 1pm until the time of the memorial service at 3pm.