In Remembrance

Harold “Butch” Carl Nordin, 80, of Duluth, died on June 23, 2026, from heart complications, surrounded by his children. He spent his life giving his heart to others, and in the end, it was his heart that guided him home. Born on June 14, 1946, in Hibbing, Minnesota, Harold grew up in a close-knit neighborhood filled with friends, laughter, and the love of his parents, Mary and Carl Harold.

In 1972, Harold enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam era. After returning home, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and later his master’s degree from the College of St. Scholastica. In 1979, he began his career at Minnesota Power, where he worked as a computer analyst for more than 25 years until he retired. Known for his reliability and integrity, he rarely missed a day of school or work.

Harold married the love of his life, Patricia Ann (Horkey) Nordin, and together they shared 41 years of marriage filled with devotion, humor, and adventure. They raised their family in Duluth, spending countless days camping, picking blueberries, birdwatching, and exploring the Boundary Waters.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Harold was endlessly curious and in awe of the natural world. He was a Master Naturalist, served on the Audubon Society board for over twenty years, and volunteered with Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, Hawk Ridge, Hartley Nature Center, and many other conservation groups. He cared for every creature he encountered, from injured birds to the many beloved dogs he adopted. He was an avid birdwatcher. His family likes to think that every time you see or hear a special bird, that’ll be Harold.

Harold was known for his warm humor and jolly laugh, telling jokes to friends, neighbors, and even nurses on his final day. He was gentle, loyal, hardworking, and kind. He cared for his chronically ill wife with unwavering devotion, helped neighbors without expecting anything in return, and adored his grandson, Stone. He had countless friends and a gift for building community by checking in, staying connected, and making everyone feel welcome. His friendships were deep, long?lasting, and woven into every chapter of his life. His church family at Kenwood Lutheran was an important part of his life, and he volunteered there often.

He is survived by his son Greg Nordin; his daughter Kim Nordin (Zach Schul), his grandson Stone Schul, and his dog, Yuki. He is preceded in death by his wife Patricia; his parents, Mary and Carl Harold; his sister Marylee; and his beloved dogs Red, Norman, Graham, Trixie, Ripley, and Hondo.

Those who knew Harold will remember his humor, his gentleness, his intelligence, and his deep respect for the natural world. His legacy lives on in the forests and lakes he loved, the people he cared for, his humor and positivity, and the countless quiet acts of kindness he offered throughout his life.

A celebration of his life will be held at Kenwood Lutheran Church on August 4, from 1–4. Wearing something with a bird or plant is encouraged as a tribute to Harold’s deep love of nature and the creatures he spent his life protecting. In keeping with his simple, generous spirit, no flowers or donations are requested.