Why? It isn’t fair! It is unnatural for a 45 year old woman to die leaving a husband and three young girls who loved her. Natalie was the best mother, wife, daughter, and sister. She had the purest heart. Natalie was loved by everyone.
Being first diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2006, as traumatic as it was to face, Natalie was determined to not let the cancer overtake her, but she was going to overtake it. She read every book and researched every article. As everyone who met her would say, “Natalie, you are the strongest person I know.” Even through her illness, the deli was a second home to her. A feeling of normalcy to Natalie was to put in an hour if she could. The extra support from employees, customers, and friends gave Natalie comfort. As her Hebrew name Nechama Devorah means comfort, she provided this for those around her.
Something that has been instilled in our family is Shabbos. Every Friday night, Natalie and the girls lit candles, we said Kiddush, and had Shabbos dinner. Shabbos and holidays were the most special times spent together. She passed on to her family what her parents, Lila and Norman, passed on to her. And Jen, you were the best sister and friend. Natalie knows that you will be here for me and the kids, like you were always there for her.
By the show of this room, Natalie had many friends. I would like to personally thank Dr. Laura Brinz and her dedicated staff and nurses, who with G‑d’s help, gave all of us extended time with Natalie. Every day, hour, minute, and second was precious to us. As mentioned before, holiday time was so special. Two months ago at an appointment with Dr. Brinz, Natalie said that she was going to spend Passover together with her best friend, Cindy, in Boca no matter what. She said it would happen and she made it happen. We all here today have lost someone so special to each of us. We love you and miss you.