Nathan W. Putnam

In Loving Memory of Nathan W. “Great Nate” Putnam July 30, 1928 – February 26, 2025

Nathan W. Putnam, 96, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away on February 26, 2025, at Homewood at Frederick.

Born on July 30, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio, Nate was the son of the late Nathan W. and Mary D. (Higgins) Putnam. He was the beloved husband of Susan Parker Putnam, with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage.

Nate’s life was defined by service, adventure, and a commitment to his family. As a young man, he served in the Army during the Korean War, where he was stationed overseas to support the war efforts. After returning home, he attended and graduated from Maine University. In Boston, he was set up on a blind date with Susan Parker, a Wellesley College student. Their connection was immediate, and they married on September 29, 1956.

Nate lived life to the fullest, with countless stories of his adventures that always left his friends and family smiling. His daughters’ friends would often ask, "Did you know your dad did...?" And with a knowing smile, they would nod, because that was Nate—always living a full, exciting life.

In his later years, Nate enjoyed life at Homewood in Frederick, where he lived in independent living. Even as his beloved Susan was placed into full-time nursing care, Nate remained by her side, visiting regularly in his red golf cart, attending his Otago exercise classes, working out at the gym, and enjoying lunch in the dining room.

Nate had a deep love for baseball and football, always supporting the local team or rooting for the underdog. He had a strong sense of justice and never tolerated bullies, proudly wearing his Ukrainian flag pin until the end of his life. A voracious reader, Nate kept up with current events, always aware of what was happening in the world. He was a passionate advocate for civil rights, women's rights, and was a steadfast supporter of his wife’s pursuit of a career in the financial industry.

Known for his impeccable sense of style, Nate could always be found dressed in a colorful shirt, with socks that perfectly matched and a pen neatly tucked into his pocket. His attention to detail and unique flair reflected the vibrant personality and love for life that he shared with all who knew him.

Nate’s warmth, humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and light will live on in our hearts forever.

Nate is survived by his wife, Susan, and their two children: Alison Putnam and her partner, Steve Provoncha, of Rockville, MD, and Kathy Putnam of South Hadley, MA.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Pine View Cemetery in Queensbury, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Nate’s name to support the Ukrainian people through United Help Ukraine, or a similar charity, or to benefit veterans and first responders through Hero Dogs in Brookeville, MD.