Obituaries

Nathan James Kaczmarek, lovingly known to many as Nate and Bubs, passed away on Friday, October 16, 2026, at his home with his loving family by his side following a courageous battle with cancer. Nate was born on January 21, 1974, in Bay City, Michigan, to Gary L. and Amanda (Fedak) Kaczmarek. From the beginning, he brought warmth, strength, and a spirited presence into the lives of those around him. He lived his life with a generous heart and a steady devotion to the people he loved, and he will be remembered always as loving, courageous, and selfless.

Nate married his kindergarten sweetheart, Jennifer (Roper) Kaczmarek, on September 23, 2026, and over the years they shared so many memories together. Their bond was built on a lifetime of love, friendship, and deep understanding, and their marriage was a beautiful reflection of the life they created side by side. Jennifer was the love of his life, and together they built a family that was the center of Nate’s world. He is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer; their children, Alexandria (Austin) Emmert, Spencer (Mandi) Maxon, Christian (Brittinae) Carriveau, and MacKenzie (Jacob) Preger; and his adored grandchildren, Axel, Amara, Arya, Sarah, Kolter, Scout, Hanna, Brooklyn, Sunny, Sterling, Callie, Oaklee, and Aubree. He also leaves behind his godsons, A.J. Kaczmarek Jr. and Cody Scherzer; his parents, Gary & Amanda Scherzer; his grandparents, Alex and Carole Fedak and Florence “Tootsie” Scherzer; and his siblings, Aaron (Amanda) Kaczmarek of Midland, Kyle (Johnna) Scherzer of Ohio, Shane (Jessica) Scherzer of Freeland, Dain (Brittney) Scherzer of Midland, Brandi Scherzer of Pinconning, Nate is also survived by many nieces and nephews, along with his beloved cat, Pickle, all of whom will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Gary L. Kaczmarek; his grandparents, Clarence and Betty Kaczmarek; his uncle, Clarence “Ted” Kaczmarek; his aunt, Kathy Luptowski; and his Grandpa Arthur Scherzer. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life, and he carried the love of his family with him always.

Nate was a proud graduate of Pinconning Area High School. He went on to pursue higher education in Criminal Justice and Conservation Law and earned an associate degree in Natural Resources Technology at LSSU. He valued learning, discipline, and service, and his education helped shape the dedicated man he became. His career reflected those same values, and he served with honor as a highly decorated Sergeant in the Sault Ste. Marie Police Department. Throughout his distinguished law enforcement career, Nate earned multiple Merit Commendations, Congressional Recognition, multiple lifesaving awards, a Letter of Commendation from the Sault Ste. Marie Department, and a Letter of Appreciation from the Sault Ste. Marie Police Department. He was also voted Best Police Officer of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Department, a recognition that spoke to the respect he earned from both colleagues and the community he served. He leaves behind his professional brothers and friends, John Weist, Phillip Donnay, Darrell Harp, Derek Odell, Chris Stempky, Dan Hackman, Mike Langendorf, known affectionately as Dorf, and Fran DeShano, as well as all other Law Enforcement Personnel that had the opportunity to work with Nate. Outside of his work, Nate enjoyed life in the simplest and truest ways. He loved being in the comfort of the woods, hunting, fishing, riding his side by side, and spending time outdoors. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with family and friends. Nate will be remembered as the best big brother and protector, a role he embraced from childhood through adulthood. His early years were filled with building forts, playing football and baseball, and roughhousing with the people he loved. He appreciated the simple things in life and found joy in the moments that mattered most. Those who knew Nate will remember his strong spirit, his loyal heart, and the way he made others feel safe, valued, and loved. He lived with purpose, served with honor, and loved without hesitation. His legacy will continue through the family he treasured, the friends he inspired, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Funeral Mass will be held Friday, October 23, 2026, at 11:00 am from Holy Trinity Parish in Pinconning with Rev. Fr. Homic presiding with cremation to follow. Friends may visit at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home on Thursday, from 2:00p.m. until 8:00 p.m. On Friday, Nate will lie in state at the church from 10:00 am until time of mass.