LEWISTON — Nathan Michael Desjardins, 20, of Albion died on Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston as a result of injuries sustained in a search and rescue operation while working for the Fryeburg Police Department who were assisting the Maine Warden Service. Nate was born on June 12, 1996, in Waterville, the second son of Nicole (Proulx) Desjardins and Brian Desjardins.

Nate was educated in local schools, enjoyed soccer and graduated with academic honors from Lawrence High School, Class of 2014. During his sophomore year in college, he pursued his dream of studying abroad, and was fortunate enough to spend a semester in Seville, Spain, where he fell in love with the people and the culture, and also continued to learn how to play the violin, which he continued to teach himself when he returned to Maine.

Nate enjoyed many styles of music, with country being his favorite, and he was ecstatic that he was able to recently attend his favorite country music artist’s (Josh Turner) concert with one of his best friends. He pursued employment opportunities which would enhance his passion for learning and serving the public through roles as an EMT and reserve police officer, while using the money earned to pay for his college education.

He had completed his third year at the University of New England, School of Nursing, and had a clear vision of using his education to better his contribution to police departments, EMT service or any agency called upon to assist others in time of need. Nate always spoke highly of his friends at UNE and the excellent caliber of his professors, and continued to thrive and excel academically.

Nate enjoyed the outdoors, be it skiing, fishing or kayaking. His hike up Mount Katahdin gave him a love of hiking and was in keeping with his decision to live a healthy lifestyle, exercise on a regular basis at a gym and become a decent cook with a wide range of tasty dishes to whip up.

He was a focused individual who wanted to make a difference in this world by contributing whatever he could, wherever he could, whenever he could. His goal was to live a selfless life with a relationship with God foremost; others second and himself third — such was his compassion. Even in death, he gave of himself as an organ donor so others could enjoy life a little better.

Nate is survived by his parents; his brother, Ross Desjardins; his grandmother, Susan Proulx; as well as a very large extended family and circle of friends.

Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to view a video collage of Nate’s life and to share condolences, memories and tributes with his family.