As Father’s Day approaches, it’s time to shine a spotlight on remarkable fathers like Nolan Wessell, whose dedication to family, career, and community is inspiring. Nolan, a native of north-central Wisconsin, has carved a path of excellence in his profession as an orthopedic surgeon, while also being a devoted father and loving husband.

Nolan’s journey toward becoming a renowned spine surgeon was marked by academic achievements and a passion for healthcare. After graduating with honors in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin, Nolan delved into medical research, studying hepatitis B and HIV with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. His pursuit of excellence led him to Wayne State University School of Medicine, where he honed his skills and later completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit. Throughout his medical career, 

Nolan has remained dedicated to advancing his field, serving on various committees and contributing to the well-being of his colleagues and patients at the University of Colorado.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Nolan finds true fulfillment in his role as a father to his two children, Penelope and Crew, and as a supportive partner to his wife, Kristin. Together, they have created a loving and vibrant family life filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished memories.

“Kristin and I have been together since we were 18 and 20,” recalls Nolan. Kristin shares, “I met my husband through my brother. We fell in love young, hard and fast.” Their relationship became long distance with Nolan in Madison, Wisconsin and Kristin in Minneapolis studying dance before dancing professionally in New York City, Chicago and Detroit. 

They got married in 2009 and began their life together. Nolan shares, “We've connected over a number of things but the key factor was our desire to be parents.” They decided to move to Denver for Nolan’s fellowship at the University of Colorado Health and put down roots in the community. Kristin hung up her professional dancing shoes and now works as an interior designer at Studio Como; she also volunteers in Character Education at Carson Elementary where their daughter attends school.

Nolan loves being a father. He comments, “The pride of fatherhood stems from watching my kids grow into fun, witty, kind-hearted and hardworking humans.  They're a joy to hang out with.  Some of my best laughs have come from the time we've spent together as a family.”

Is it challenging to be a successful surgeon, loving husband, and a dedicated Dad? Nolan explains, “The sacrifices that come with being a father are well worth it.  Fatherhood teaches you a lot about yourself and who you are.  The kids have helped me grow into a better version of myself.” 

Nolan treasures time with his children. He comments, “I also love watching them tackle a new skill, flying around the ice on skates, zooming down the mountains while skiing or zipping across the lake behind grandma and grandpa's boat.  Honestly though, some of my favorite times are around the dinner table or around the fire at night.  Those are the moments where I appreciate how smart and funny the kids can be.”

When not working, Nolan and Kristin enjoy playing golf. Nolan adds, “We also make sure to attend a number of performances at the Denver Center for Performing Arts each year as she serves on their gala fundraiser committee.”

Skiing, hiking, playing board games, and traveling are other pastimes that they enjoy with their kids, expanding their horizons with leisurely vacations to Wisconsin, California, Florida, Cancun, Cabo, the Bahamas, and lots of fun excursions. They also stay busy with the kids’ activities. Nolan shares, “My daughter, Penelope, is becoming more and more competitive with her gymnastics while my son, Crew, has been on the ice, learning to play hockey, since he was 3.” “The kids are also into gardening,” says Kristin. “I come from a greenhouse family with three generations in Wisconsin.” Her family name is Sorenson and her family believed, “Having a fake plant is like biting into a fake fruit.” That’s why the Wessell family household is filled with all real plants. The kids learn all about plants through watering them. “We name our plants,” explains Kristin. 

To relax and unwind, Nolan enjoys hunting and fishing, as well as almost any activity that the entire family can participate in. He and Kristin also embarked on a remodeling project for their home with a nod to its 1950s roots, which is now warm and inviting.

As Father’s Day approaches, Nolan’s family has established their own cherished traditions, celebrating the occasion with one of Nolan’s good friends, James. 

“We’ve become joint holiday families,” explains Nolan. “We host a Mother's Day brunch at our house and a Father's Day grill out at their place.  Now that the kids are getting older, we might need to incorporate a family round of golf or maybe some trout fishing!”

On this Father’s Day, let us honor Nolan, who inspires us all to embrace the joys of family, pursue our passions, and cherish the moments that matter most. Happy Father’s Day, Nolan, and to fathers everywhere who make a difference in the lives of their loved ones each and every day.

Mix ground beef together with salt and pepper and then pound together into patties with a dollop of butter on top. Grill to your desired temperature. Top with your cheese of choice, lettuce, tomato and avocado, with grilled buns, OF COURSE!

Mix mayonnaise with Cholula hot sauce and thinly diced dill pickle.

Pair with corn on the cob boiled in water with fresh Italian parsley and a side of grilled mushrooms and bell peppers, tossed in garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper.

Enjoy!