Nolan Ryan Lake, 25

Nolan Ryan Lake, age 25, of New Prague, died unexpectedly from an accidental overdose after a lifetime of mental health struggles on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Nolan was born on August 8, 1998, in Burnsville, to Ryan and Jennifer (Erickson) Lake.  He grew up in New Prague, attending New Prague Public Schools.

Nolan’s potential was unlimited!  At 14, he designed his first website and at 17, another.  His gift in understanding and designing IT were limitless. Nolan’s creativity knew no bounds. He had a love of fashion and style, painting, creating jewelry, designing his own tattoos, and putting a lot of thought in his own style. Shoes were a particular favorite, and his shoe collection was the envy of many!  Trips to the Mall of America with his sister, Maren, brought hours of joy!  His love of music began as a toddler and covered all genres of music.  Being a natural foodie, Nolan was never afraid to try any new food.  He enjoyed creating the dishes and enjoyed baking and cooking. Nolan loved playing video games and watching movies, especially at home with his mom and dad or curled up shaking in terror watching a horror movie with Maren.  Finally, one can’t mention Nolan, without commenting on his love of fast driving – “he was the best worst driver ever!”

Nolan’s greatest gift, however, was his huge heart!  His kindness and care for others were endless - he put everyone before himself.  Despite his journey with tremendous anxiety and a mind that couldn’t shut down, Nolan, even during his darkest days of addiction, was always encouraging to his friends, encouraging them to stay the course on their own journeys of rehabilitation and struggle.  He could always see the darkness that others were experiencing and be the light in their darkness.  He was the best friend that one could ever have, making any experience fun and exciting!  His big heart, his compassion for the downtrodden, his love of anyone experiencing pain, were huge and yet he was unable to see the gift that he was, the gift that so many others saw in him.

Nolan is survived by his loving parents, Ryan & Jennifer Lake of New Prague; his favorite sister, Maren Lake of Chaska; his grandparents, Mary & Gary Lake of New Prague and Kathryn Erickson of Alexandria; many aunts, uncles, & cousins; many special, special friends; his faithful German Shepherd, Piper.  He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Allen Erickson.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 4 PM at Bruzek Funeral Home with Reverend Harry Hartigan officiating.  Visitation will be held for 2 hours prior to the service from 2-4 PM.  Lunch will follow at Next Chapter Winery.  Guests are asked to dress comfortably in vibrant, fun colors!  

In support of organizations that brought comfort to Nolan and that support mental health, his family requests donations to the following:

Pride Institute (checks preferred), 14400 Martin Dr., Eden Prairie, MN  55344

OR Duck Cup Memorial Fund, PO Box 162, New Prague, MN 56071   

OR Venmo: @DUCKCUP-MEMORIAL

bruzekfuneralhome.com