Gary L. Natal

Gary Lee Natal, 88, Wausau, died Friday, October 23, 2026 at Wood Aven Health & Rehabilitation.

Gary was born September 14, 1938 in Brokaw to the late Adolph and Pearl (Gaulke) Natal. He graduated in 1956 from Wausau High School. He then served in the Army for three years stationed in Germany. He married his high school sweetheart, Annette Marquardt on August of 1960 at Zion Lutheran Church, Wausau. He worked a few years as an appraiser before beginning his 35-year career at Wausau Papers. Gary served as their Sales Manager. The couple was blessed with two daughters: Gina and Julie.

Gary was a friendly and gentle man devoted to his God and his family. He was a welcoming face passing out bulletins at the church. He enjoyed spending time at the cottage. He tried to clean all of the fish that his wife, Netzy, caught. He spent time maintaining the property and taking pontoon rides. He was an avid fan for the many sporting events that his children and grandchildren were involved. He followed the Packers faithfully. He was fond of his own dachshunds and later the many "grand" dogs that visited him.

Gary is survived by his sister, Donna Coel; daughters Gina (Dwayne) Maroszek of Wausau and Julie (Rick) Kirst of Lenoir City, Tennessee; grandchildren Christopher Maroszek, Cassidy (Jace) Gwynn, Garret (Sydney) Clemment and Logan (Michaela) Clemment; great-grandson, Monte; and extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his wife, Annette Natal.

The funeral service of Gary will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Christ Lutheran Church, Wausau. Rev. David Wetmore will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the church. Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park at a later date. Helke Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be directed to Christ Lutheran Church in Gary's memory (1300 Townline Road, Wausau, WI 54403).

A sincere word of appreciation goes to the staff of Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Wood Health & Rehabilitation for their compassionate care during his final weeks of life.