James Edward Natale, 74, of Gales Ferry, Connecticut died on October 7th, 2006 at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital, of a heart attack. Son of James and Bessie Danion Natale, he was born in Danbury, Connecticut on June 11th, 1932. Jim attended the local schools in town, graduating from Danbury State Teachers College in1954.
Jim taught instrumental music for 38 years in Connecticut, most recently in Norwich. Over his long teaching career, he derived much pleasure from the accomplishments of his many students, always encouraging them to pursue their skills. A life-long jazz musician, Jim played in small combos around Connecticut. After his retirement in 1992, his pursuits turned to the concert band. He played euphonium with the Noank-Mystic Band, and was also a percussionist with other organizations.
Jim became a winter resident in Florida and played with the Naples Concert Band for ten years. Although he did primarily tympani work, he was also a featured xylophone soloist. He was a member of Windjammers Unlimited in Sarasota, Florida, a large organization dedicated to the preservation of circus music. In the summer, he was percussion section leader for both the Elderhostel Band in Albany, New York and the Williamsburg Consort of Virginia. Jim enjoyed a long and rewarding retirement, filled with travel and music.
Jim is survived by his loving family, wife of 51 years, Carol Petterson Natale, daughter, Pam Natale of New London, Connecticut, sons, David Natale and Lynn Regan of Windsor, Connecticut, and Peter and Jennifer Natale of Kinnelon, New Jersey. He is also survived by his brother John, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters Evelyn Knapp and Lorraine Barchi of Danbury, Connecticut.
Jim’s family would like to express their appreciation to the staffs at both the Hematology and Oncology Clinic and Lawrence & Memorial Hospital, both of New London, Connecticut, for their kind care and support.
Service will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to Lawrence & Memorial Development Fund, 365 Montauk Avenue, New London, Connecticut 06320.
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