Nolan Ray Slaght, 23, of East Dubuque, Illinois passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, peacefully at home following a courageous battle with brain cancer.

A private celebration to honor Nolan’s life to be held at a later date.   

Nolan was born on August 18, 2003, to proud parents Justin Osterkamp and Nelli Slaght.   

Nolan’s was a story of perseverance and strength. No matter what curveballs were thrown at Nolan, he stood tall in the box and kept on swinging to the very end.   

Nolan’s, patience, gentle spirit, and selfless outlook helped usher him through life’s unexpected journeys, which he met with a mature poise and composure.  As a proud 2022 graduate of East Dubuque High School, Nolan’s Warrior spirit is sure to live on in those who had the pleasure of accompanying him on his short, yet full life filled with love and understanding.

Nolan loved playing sports, especially baseball, basketball, and football & often dreamed of becoming a professional football player. Nolan’s fan allegiance sided mainly with the Cubs, Bulls, and Bears – often remarking that the infamous “double doink” from 2019 was one of the worst days of his life. Luckily, he was able to witness his Cubs winning the World Series in 2016. Like Sandberg, Jordan, and Hester – Nolan, you are Forever 23.   

As an assistant manager at Finish Line and a “sneakerhead,” Nolan took great pride in his personal style. A fresh hat & hoodie often accompanied his trademark smile. His suave hair and wry sense of humor always completed any ensemble. His soul was cleaner than a fresh pair of kicks.

Gentle people are animal lovers, and Nolan cared for his dogs Farley and Olive until the very end with his girlfriend, Saige.

Nolan enriched us with his love and light; we’re forever blessed to have known him. We thank him for sharing his beauty and generosity with us. May his peace be a calming presence to us all.    

Nolan is survived by his parents Justin Osterkamp and Nelli Slaght; his siblings Alexandria Osterkamp, Rubyanne Retzlaff, and Lincoln Retzlaff; his grandparents: Kari & Chris Pfab, William Slaght, Sr, and Cynthia Farni; “bonus uncle” Jake Willey; countless Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Friends.  Thank you to his longtime girlfriend, Saige Pladna, who cared for Nolan with great love and patience.

Nolan was preceded in death by his grandmother Linda Osterkamp, aunts Kim Lembke and Pam Evilsizer, and great aunt Trisha Osterkamp.

In lieu of flowers, a Nolan Ray Slaght memorial fund has been established where all donations will go to Nolan’s favorite charity.

Online condolences for Nolan’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com