Obituary of Jeanette Earlene (Rose) Natale

Jeanette Earlene (Rose) Natale, 92 of Venice Florida, completed her journey to join her husband, Bill and daughter, MaryEllen; as well as, other loved ones on January 8, 2024. Born at home in Tompkins Cove, New York on October 1, 1931, to Nelson M. Rose, Jr. and Caroline (Carrie) Furst- Rose, Jeanette was the youngest of 5 daughters and was fondly referred to as “the caboose” when growing up. Predeceased loving sisters include: Vivian Brooks, Dorothy Bolak, Ethel Reardon and Carolyn Mains. Growing up in the family restaurant business, Roseland (along the Hudson River and a popular tourist stop for travelers venturing from NYC to Bear Mountain and West Point, New York), she witnessed first-hand, family commitment, team-work, supporting each other and resiliency when facing challenging times. She often shared how her mom would turn a hand-me-down dress into something special for her. “Be creative and see the possibilities” was such a powerful message!

As a member of the National Honor Society in English, drama club, cheerleader & honor roll at Haverstraw High, New York, Jeanette embraced an understanding of leadership skills to guide her family legacy. Mom to 5, Grandma to 10 and Great-Grandma to another generation of 10, she was an “influencer” before social media created this title. Our Mom was a role model for balancing family, community outreach and a team approach for business ventures with our Dad. She took the lead in coordinating one of their first adventures and running an Inn (actually sharing their home off of 9W) for NYC workers building the original Tappan Zee Bridge. Embracing the changing times and their growing family, Jeanette and Bill transitioned to renting these rooms as apartments and later purchasing a commercial apartment building next door. With an attention to detail, Jeanette worked long hours (often behind the scenes) with preparing the apartments to rent and business record-keeping, while taking care of the family.

A breast cancer survivor for 39 years, Jeanette also reached out supporting others and showed us the value of “gentle support” through empathy and listening when others need to be heard. After moving to Florida in her early 50’s, she returned to the career world at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, Florida. Assistant to Father Soy, she learned computer skills, created the weekly bulletin and once again, with respect was part of a team helping parishioners.

With her Bible and “Jesus Calling” at her side into her 90’s, along with her cell phone to call or text (the grandchildren loved this!), our Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma never missed showing her love to celebrate a birthday, graduation or checking-in. “You are a part of us Mom and at every family gathering, every meal we make, every time we laugh, cry and create memories for and with the next generation, you are guiding us always.”

Jeanette E. Natale is survived by her children, William Scott Natale, Rita & husband Greg Smith, Cathy & husband Pat Felice, Alicia & husband Mark Caithness and in our hearts, our sister MaryEllen Natale.

A funeral mass will be held for Jeanette E. Natale on Wednesday, January 31st, 2024, at 10:00 am at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, Florida. To be announced, Jeanette and William J. Natale will be placed to rest together at the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Haverstraw, New York.