Natalie Ruth Laufe Berez
June 24, 2017

BEREZ, NATALIE RUTH LAUFE; Peacefully, 24^th of June 2017, 30th of Sivan 5777, surrounded by family, in Encinitas, CA. Cherished wife of the late Ernest S. Berez; devoted mother of Franne R. Berez (Walter Kaye), Joel M. Berez (Ann), and Steven H. Berez (Peggy Lowenstein); grandmother of Alexander W. Berez, Emily P. Berez, Daniel W. Berez, and Julie R. Berez; devoted daughter of the late Charles Laufe and the late Pearl Spatz Laufe. Born in Pittsburgh on March 17, 1930, Natalie resided there most of her life before moving to Encinitas. While attending the University of Pittsburgh, Natalie met Ernie, and they married in 1949. She completed her bachelor’s degree in English and later took classes toward a master’s degree in History. Natalie taught English part-time while raising her children. Natalie’s greatest passion was spending time with those dear to her, taking the most pleasure in events that included her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. Natalie was a long-time member of Congregation Beth Shalom of Pittsburgh. Always community-minded, she was active in the leadership of its Sisterhood and its social action programs and involved at the national level through the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism. An avid supporter of Israel, Natalie spent a month in Jerusalem annually for many years, taught English to new immigrants for a year in Netanya, and was honored by Na’amat for her lifetime service. In her later years, Natalie was a vibrant member of the Seacrest Village community in Encinitas, where she thrived with a wonderful group of friends and devoted caregivers. Throughout her life, Natalie expressed her beliefs through essays and poetry and she took great pride in her collections of writings. Natalie was a special woman who always strove to care for her family and to improve the world. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Wednesday, June 28, 2017, at 11 a.m. Visitation one hour prior to services (10 - 11 a.m.). Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Congregation Beth Shalom, Seacrest Village or a charity of the donor's choice. www.schugar.com

Condolences

Hello Steve: I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot make it to the funeral but wanted to let you and your family know how welcoming your mom was when we came to your house to hang out after school or other times. She was very special as you know and loved in the Pittsburgh community. I hope your family is otherwise well. Bruce