Obituary of Natalie Weill

Natalie Weill, age 91, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 29th at Dominican Oaks, where she and husband, Irving had resided since April 2008. Natalie was born March 8, 1919 in Spokane, Washington to Louis and Lena Gerson. The family moved to San Jose and her older brother, Alvin, was instrumental in her upbringing after the untimely death of her mother. Natalie graduated from San Jose High School, and had vivid memories of working in the fruit packing sheds. The family later relocated to San Francisco to be closer to other relatives. During this time she was introduced to Irving Weill, who had joined the Army and was stationed at the Presidio. Her beautiful red hair and love of dancing attracted him and they made a striking couple. Irving was the love of her life and they were married on December 14, 1941, just one week after the Pearl Harbor attack. Irving served in the European theatre of war and upon his return, he continued his career in the military. They made their home in the Bay Area, eventually having three children, Estalee, Julie and Jeffrey. Natalie and Irving shared 68 years of marriage and numerous adventures. They moved several times, but always made new friends who were attracted by their vitality and love of life. Natalie kept hearth and home together while Irv was stationed overseas in locations that the family could not go to join him. Natalie worked as a Nurse's Aide, secretary, and salesperson at various companies during her work career. She was very proud of her experience working at pre-schools and elementary schools, as an aide and later volunteering in similar capacities. They moved to Santa Cruz County in 1983. She loved playing bridge, entertaining friends and traveling to Hawaii. Living at Dominican Oaks was an opportunity to have a new community and to enthusiastically participate in activities, such as the DOLS (Dominican Old Ladies Singing). Natalie was an active member of Temple Beth El, and consistently demonstrated compassion toward people both inside and outside the congregation. She was very devoted to her family and avidly kept track of how all the "kids" were doing. She is survived by her loving family: husband Irving, children Estalee (Helen), Julie (Barry), and Jeffrey (Karen). She leaves 4 grandchildren, Laurel, Ellison, Alyx, and Erica, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Louis and Lena Gerson, and her brother Alvin. Private burial will take place at the Home of Peace Cemetery in Santa Cruz. A Shiva Minion service will take place Wednesday evening. A date for the memorial service has not yet been established. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be made to Second Harvest Food Bank 800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville, CA. 95076 or Simcha Preschool at Temple Beth El 3055 Porter Gulch Rd. Aptos, CA. 95003.