Nathan "Nate" Zastrow

Nate Zastrow, age 52, of Oconomowoc, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to others will be missed beyond measure.

A Life Rooted in Family and Community

Born in Milwaukee and raised in Oconomowoc, Nate embodied the best parts of both places: the humility of the Midwest and the fierce loyalty of a true hometown supporter. Above all, Nate was a family man—loving, steadfast, and endlessly proud. He was blessed to share nearly 25 years of marriage with Kristie, the love of his life. Together they built a home filled with laughter, faith, and joy, and were most proud of their two sons, Max and Augie.

Watching his boys grow—whether on the baseball diamond, basketball court, football field, or golf course—was one of Nate’s greatest joys. Nothing lit up his face faster than seeing children smile. He embraced every chance to gather with friends and family, whether hosting at home, spending time at his childhood home on Okauchee Lake, or cheering from the stands at sporting events and concerts.

A Heart for Service

Nate’s love for Oconomowoc ran deep. He believed that strong communities are built through purpose, generosity, and people helping people—and he lived that belief every day. He dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours each year to organizations that shaped the community’s future, including St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School, the Oconomowoc Area Foundation, Rogers Memorial Hospital Foundation, Blessings in a Backpack, and the Waukesha County Economic Development Corporation.

The YMCA held a special place in his heart. As a two-time Board President, he helped guide significant initiatives, including the development of the Miracle Field, a space designed so people of all abilities could experience the joy of play. He also helped establish the Association Board to ensure the YMCA’s continued growth and impact.

One of Nate’s most meaningful community contributions was the redevelopment of the downtown boardwalk—an effort he helped champion through collaboration with the City, Parks & Recreation, and the Oconomowoc Area Foundation in conjunction with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. The boardwalk stands as a lasting reminder of Nate’s belief in creating spaces where people can come together and where community can thrive.

Professional Excellence with Humility

Though Nate never sought the spotlight, his professional accomplishments were many. After graduating from Oconomowoc High School in 1991, he attended St. Norbert College, where he played soccer for four years. He went on to earn two master’s degrees from the UWM Lubar College of Business. Nate also held a CFA designation which is one of the most respected credentials in finance.

Nate began his career at Bank Five Nine in 1996 as a management trainee and teller—a fact he remained deeply proud of. Through hard work, integrity, and a natural ability to lead, he rose to become the bank’s Chief Financial Officer in 2006. Over the years, he received numerous accolades, including CFO of the Year (Milwaukee Business Journal, 2010), Community Banker of the Month (ICBA, 2012), and Citizen of the Year (Oconomowoc Area Chamber of Commerce, 2018).

His influence helped shape the growth of the bank and the development of its headquarters site, but Nate always viewed professional success as a means to give back—not as a measure of status.

The Legacy He Leaves

Above titles, awards, or achievements, Nate’s legacy lives strongest in the relationships he built. He was known for his humor, his grit, and the way he showed up for others—quietly, consistently, and without expecting recognition. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a beloved son and brother, and a loyal friend.

Nate is survived by his wife, Kristie; sons, Maximus Alexander and Augustus Marc; parents, Chip and Sue; brothers, Gavin and Ben (Rachel); nieces and nephew, Eliana, Joey, and Addison; mother-in-law, Michelle (Mike); sister-in-law, Allison (Lupe); and brother-in-law, Edward. He is also survived by many extended family members, friends, and loved ones.

He is preceded in death by grandparents Leonard and Evelyn Kapp, Carol and (Walter) Roberts, John and (Roberta) Zastrow, and uncle Larry Zastrow.

Services

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 12:00 PM at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Oconomowoc, with visitation beginning at 9:30 AM. Burial will follow at LaBelle Cemetery. All are invited to a Celebration of Life at Oconomowoc Golf Club from 3:00–7:00 PM.

Memorials may be directed to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School or the Oconomowoc Area Foundation.Pagenkopf Funeral Home is assisting the family.\

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