June 14th, 2022 marked the passing of our dear and beloved friend and brother. Nathaniel B. Rich passed away after a brief and unexpected illness. Neely passed peacefully at UVMMC. He will be dearly missed by all. Nathaniel was born December 20th, 1965 in Burlington, VT. Being the comedian of the family, we enjoyed his wit, mirth and humor, as did everyone he met. He took great joy in insulting me in a loving way, at every opportunity!! Always looking on the bright side, even when things were tough. He was known to say "At least I didn't wake up in Africa!" Nathaniel worked successfully as a skilled tradesman and was well respected in his field. Neely's cute demeanor and good looks always caught an eye from the ladies. He also had a generous nature, which always led him to consider others first. Nathaniel was predeceased by his loving parents, Donald and Margret Rich. His surviving siblings, Victoria, Malachey, Heidi, Donald, Jonathan and Owen, and his daughter, Brianna will most certainly long grieve this loss, along with all who knew him. Nathaniel had deep love for the outdoors and all things natural, a good trait in any person. Neely had an instinctive kindness, that I am still learning. He frequently caused us all to look through a different perspective and lens, that lens focused on positivity, kindness and caring. Neely did have his spicy side. When his buddy Tony asked for a bite of his snickers bar, he was glad to share, then Tony gobbled the WHOLE thing in one bite! Neely was kinda pissed at Tony for years - still is. Although, I am sure he has forgiven him by now. Neely also had an interest in all things mechanical, sure hope they have a tinkers shop in heaven, he'll be right at home, I am sure St. Pete will give Neely a golden key to that heavenly workshop. When Neely was younger, he built a go-cart, which I criticized until he intently burnt a hole clean through the top of my brand new boot, then he drove away laughing! That would have been Neely's mischievous side, a side of him we will chuckle at in remembrance. The love and kindness Nathaniel expressed and exuded, I cannot put into mere words. He will miss us, as much as we will miss him. I weep not for myself. For to have know him is an honor, we can all take with us the rest of our lives. God speed our friend. A graveside public service will be held at Fairview cemetery at Old Colchester Road, Essex Jct. All are invited. A celebration of life to follow at Murray's Tavern, Essex Jct, VT. Please re-visit this site for upcoming date and time. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Humane Society of Chittenden County, 142 Kindness Ct. , South Burlington VT 05403 To to the family or in memory of Nathaniel "Neely" Bartlett Rich, please