Natalie R. Wiegel, 98, a long-time Beaverton resident, passed away October 23, 2015 following a brief illness. She was born and raised in Port Washington (Long Island), New York, the youngest of 5 children of Herbert and Ella (Robinson) Rose. That she had lived longer than anyone else in the Rose family line was a satisfaction to her. Music was at the center of her life from early years. Starting on piano, she moved on to violin and clarinet in high school orchestra and band. At age 13 she attended music camp at Interlochen, Michigan. John Philip Sousa, “the March King,” was a guest conductor and, noting that Natalie’s residence was near his own, he requested a meeting which became an hour-long conversation and a very memorable experience for the young lady. She was graduated from the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music and then took a position teaching music in Utica, New York. It was there that she met the love of her life, Carl G. “Gerry” Wiegel; they were married in 1940. In 1943 Gerry and Natalie moved west to Portland, Oregon. They adopted a daughter, Jerri Ann (Pomerinke, of Spokane, Washington), who, along with two grandchildren, survives. Gerry died in 1959 and Natalie returned to teaching and music education in the Portland Schools. She felt strongly that music and the arts were critical to children’s education even in the “post-Sputnik” era of emphasis on math and science, and her work stressed excellence and innovation in music education. She was a teacher-consultant as part of the Manhattanville Music Curriculum Project, a national program in the 1960’s aimed at improving music education in the schools. The recurring contact she had with former students and teaching colleagues was a joy to her over the years. Retiring in 1980, she became deeply involved as a volunteer in supporting the Parry Center for Children in Portland. She served on the board for seven years, was instrumental in founding an auxiliary, organized a benefit bridge tournament and several auctions, receiving several commendations for her efforts.

During her years in the Portland area, Natalie made a number of wonderful friends, too numerous to try to name. They were a cherished part of her life. She was faithful and committed to them, and they to her. They know who they are, and should fully realize the joy and fullness they brought to her life. For many years Natalie maintained her own home, especially enjoying her flowers, landscaping and the songbirds that flocked to her many bird-feeders. Until she was about 95 she drove her own car to her many activities around town. She spent her final years at West Hills Village, where she enjoyed the pleasant surroundings, supportive staff and new friends.

At her request there will be no service. In its stead, please contemplate for a moment or two a simple, productive and loving life well-lived, and be thankful for it. Natalie’s remains will be placed with those of her husband at Riverview Abbey. Memorials to Trillium Family Services/Parry Center in Portland (3415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland OR 97202 or on-line) would be appropriate.