Nate proudly represented the Rochester Raiders Hockey team from 2001 to 2006. Throughout his life, he exemplified faith, courage, kindness, and resilience. Living with Haju-Cheney Syndrome, Nate faced challenges with remarkable determination, grace, and an unwavering positive spirit.
A graduate of Mayo High School and the University of Minnesota Duluth, Nate went on to build a successful career as a software engineer at IBM, where he worked for 12 years. He was admired for his intelligence, generosity, sense of humor, and genuine care for others. Nate enjoyed reading, board games, building computers, and spending time with family and friends.
Above all, Nate treasured his role as a brother and especially as "Uncle Nate." His niece and nephews brought him tremendous joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Through his faith, perseverance, and compassionate heart, Nate left a lasting impact on countless lives. His legacy continues to inspire the Rochester Raiders community and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Andrew was a dedicated member of the Rochester Raiders for 5 years. He passed away from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy just before beginning his senior year, at the age of 18. Although his life was far too short, his impact on teammates, coaches, and everyone who knew him is still felt today. Coach Mark Morrey reflected on Andrew's remarkable character:
“I know I was supposed to be the coach, but I learned more from Andrew than he could have ever learned from me. Andrew never complained! Of all the athletes I’ve coached in floor hockey, football, ice hockey, or any other sport for that matter, Andrew had the most right to complain and he never did. He accepted what life had to offer and instead of complaining, he put his energies into more worthwhile endeavors. I loved that about him, his quiet strength, his indomitable spirit, and as the commercial says, “he just did it!” Andrew was the best kind of leader. He led by example. He did everything I asked him to do and then some. He was an incredible defender. He blocked more shots than Patrick Roy! How he became so remarkable, I will never know, but he was. Andrew did not need to talk about what he did, he just did it. The pros could learn a lesson in humility from him. Andrew was all heart. He never gave up. Muscular Dystrophy may have taken his body from us, but it didn’t take his spirit. It is a spirit that will live on in each one of us. We must take to heart his final lesson to us all, to live!
Live each day to the fullest. Be thankful for what you have and treat others with dignity and respect.”