Mr. Baban
Nathan Lee Baban, 59, of Rockdale passed away on Aug. 4, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Se r v i c es were held Sunday, Aug. 10, at Phillips & Lucke y F u ne r al Home in Rockdale with Chaplain William Falsone officiating. Burial followed at I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Born on April 15, 1966, in Pasadena (TX), Nathan was the beloved son of Riadh Baban and Shirley (Carey) Rogers.
He spent his formative years in California, Austin and Rockdale.
It was at Rockdale High School where he met the love of his life, Michelle in 1982. They married on May 17, 1986, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, adventure and unwavering support.
Nathan began his career as a millwright working in nuclear plants, later transitioning to entrepreneurship. He owned and operated a successful trucking company before founding an oil field services business.
Known for his br i lliant mind and unmatched mechanical skills, Nathan could fix anything—from vehicles and farm equipment to computers he built himself. He was truly a jack of all trades and the go-to “fixer” for family and friends alike.
Of all his accomplishments, Nathan considered having Michelle by his side in every endeavor to be his greatest and proudest achievement. Together they shared countless vacations with family and friends— skiing in Colorado, relaxing in Mexico, exploring in Alaska and Hawaii, and enjoying the thrill of jeeping, four-wheeling, motorcycling, and snow skiing.
Nathan had a deep love for food and delighted in savoring every bite, often offering colorful critiques of others’ cooking.
He was the life of the party, with a contagious smile, infectious laughter and passionate spirit that lit up every room. His heart was enormous, and if you were lucky enough to know him, you were lucky enough to be loved by him. He never met a stranger, never judged anyone and was always ready to lend a helping hand. His generosity, warmth, and zest for life left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
He was preceded in death by his father, Riadh Baban; and brothers Wally and Adil Baban.
Nathan is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Baban; his mother, Shirley Rogers and stepfather Frank; a sister, Zena Caldwell and husband Cody; his aunt, Beverly Hall and her spouse, Bruce; and brothers- in-law Kenny Svrcek and wife Annette, David Svrcek and wife Janet; also, numerous nieces and nephews who adored him.
Nathan will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, including his beloved family, friends and the many dogs he cherished as his own children.
Pallbearers were Josh Schobel, John Lawhon, James Dawson, Steve Pruett, Tommie Pounders and TR Larison.
Honorary pallbearer was Maddox Wright.