Charles Joseph Natale, Sr., 91, of Woburn, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born March,1933, Charles led a remarkable life defined by dedication to his country, family, and the pursuit of knowledge. His life was filled with resilience, adventure, and a deep commitment to the values he held dear.
Charles was the third and youngest child of Sicilian immigrants, Josephine (Scaleri) and Salvatore Natale, including his pre-deceased sisters Mary Stegagno and Sarah Galeota. He was born in Woburn, where he lived all his life. He was a proud Veteran of the United States Marine Corps, enlisting at 18-a service that shaped his life. He served 3 years aboard the USS Wisconsin, a Missouri-class battleship during the Korean War. His time in the Marines was filled with invaluable experiences, camaraderie, and an enduring sense of duty. He traveled the world, from the Caribbean to the Pacific, experiencing cultures from Rio de Janeiro to Scotland, and formed many bonds with his fellow Veterans. The discipline and teamwork learned during his service were values that he carried with him throughout his life.
After his military service, Charles pursued an education at Coyne Technical School, where he earned his Master Electrician's license, and then Northeastern University where he received a degree in Engineering. His passion for learning led him to a long and successful career; first at Raytheon, where he contributed to the development of radar systems and later at Applicon. His work was always at the forefront of technological advancements, transitioning to the world of digital engineering and cutting-edge CAD/CAM systems developed, retiring from Digital Equipment Corporation at 60.
Family was at the center of Charles' life. He was the loving husband of the late Catherine Natale (DeTeso) with whom he shared nearly 50 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children, instilling in them the same values of hard work, education, and the love of life that he lived by until his last days. His family, including his four grandchildren and several great grandchildren, was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment with them together.
In retirement, Charles embraced the simple pleasures of life. He remained active with the Sons of Italy, walked Horn Pond regularly with friends, enjoyed morning coffee with his Police and Veteran friends, played cards with his special card group and billiards at the Woburn Senior Center. His annual trips to Maine for deer hunting were a cherished tradition, one he continued well into his later years.
Charles' dear friends fueled his long life-he often joked and shared many stories that will live on through those who will remember him fondly. He is survived by his three children, among them Diane Natale and Alan Natale and Charles' grandchildren among them, Olivia and Isabel LaRoche, and Isabel's daughter Viviana Dominique.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours at the McLaughlin-Dello Russo Family Funeral Home, 60 Pleasant St., Tuesday, October 1st, from 4 to 7 p.m. A prayer service will be held in the funeral home, Wednesday, October 2nd, at 11 a.m. Services will conclude with military honors and burial at Wildwood Cemetery, Winchester. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Woburn Veteran's Association and the Woburn Senior Center in Charles' name would be preferred and greatly appreciated.