Charles Paul Nord

United States Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 2 Charles Paul Nord tragically lost his life on December 5, 2019, following a Blackhawk helicopter crash during a maintenance test.

Born in Breckenridge, Minnesota, Nord grew up in Wyndmere, North Dakota, before moving back to Minnesota in 2001. He was raised in a close-knit family with his parents, Paul and Monica, and his brother, James. Nord often spoke fondly of his childhood, describing it as the “best anyone could ask for” and expressing deep gratitude for his supportive parents.He had a zest for life and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He loved fishing with his grandfather, Jack, and participating in water sports like wakeboarding and tubing with friends. He also enjoyed hockey, snowboarding, and running track and cross country. He led his high school cross country teams to state championships in 2006 and 2007 and continued running as an adult.

Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Nord enlisted in the Minnesota Army National Guard. Initially a tanker, he later pursued his passion for aviation and became a UH-60 Blackhawk pilot in 2016. He excelled in his training, graduating as the honor graduate from Warrant Officer Candidate School and with honors from flight school. Among his many decorations, he received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, and two Army Achievement Medals. Nord was deeply proud of his service and held himself and others to high standards. He was known for his positive attitude and ability to make people laugh. He served his country with honor and dedication. He is remembered as a loving family man, a skilled pilot, and a true patriot.

During college in 2009, Nord met Kaley, the love of his life. Kaley knew immediately that he was special, describing him as kind, nice, funny, and caring. It was love at first sight. Ironically, they both grew up in the same small town, living on opposite sides of the lake, but attended different schools and didn’t meet until college. Their chance encounter in college brought together two people destined to be together.

Kaley is a devoted mother who cherishes the memory of Nord. She resides in Perham, Minnesota, where she raises their children, Lydia and Jack Charles, in the home Nord worked tirelessly to complete. She is active in her community and church, participating in the Mom’s Life Group. Kaley ensures Nord’s name is spoken daily in their household, keeping his spirit alive for their children. At the time of the accident, their oldest child was two years old, and Kaley was seven months pregnant. She is eternally grateful for the support of her family, community, and the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, which has enabled her to remain in their home.

United States Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 2 Charles Paul Nord is survived by his loving wife, Kaley; their beautiful children, Lydia and Jack Charles; his parents, Paul and Monica; his brother, James, and wife, Tiffany; his maternal grandparents, Jack and Kathleen; his parents-in-law, Jeffrey and Lisa; his sister-in-law, Keshia, and husband, John; his brother-in-law, Kasey, and wife, Tori; and his nieces and nephew, Millie, Luella, Maisie, Ivory, and Gage.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Nord family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.