Nathan Clark Burgess was born on February 17, 1974, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Gene Burgess and Carleen Jung. He spent his childhood in Missouri and Illinois and graduated from Perryville High School in 1992. Nathan always knew he wanted to live a life of service. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, spending most of his time on aircraft carriers.

After his commitment to the Navy, he continued serving others by joining the ranks of public safety in 1998. He began dedicating his time to the citizens of Johnston County as an EMT before transitioning into the 50-210 Fire Department in 1999. It was there that he found his calling. Nathan joined the Raleigh Fire Department in 2003. Throughout his career, he served the residents of Wake and Johnston Counties. Nathan’s dedication to the profession throughout his career with the Raleigh Fire Department earned him the titles of firefighter, lieutenant, captain, academy instructor, live burn instructor, and ultimately Task Force 8 Team Leader. With the 50-210 Fire Department, Nathan rose to the position of fire chief.

When he wasn’t in uniform, you could find Nathan on the lake fishing, in the woods hunting, or working in his shop. Nathan took great pride in his family and was a very proud father. He was a devoted husband, leaving behind his wife of nearly 20 year, Christy, and his children, Chayse, Garris, Peyton, and Neise. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Hope Noelle.

Nathan started having throat issues in January of 2022 and was diagnosed with occupational throat cancer in May 2022. Ever a servant’s heart, while undergoing treatment Nathan was enrolled in a trial study to help others who would walk the path behind him. He fought valiantly for 18 months and passed away at Duke University Hospital on November 12, 2023.

Husband. Father. Veteran. Firefighter. Son. Brother. Uncle. Friend. Hero. These were all titles he wore with honor. Nathan is missed not only by his family but also by the men and women he served alongside. He truly lived a life he loved, and we will forever find solace in knowing that his life made a difference in the lives of those in the communities he served.