Natalie Fields

1930 - 2013

Natalie E (Krischer) Fields passed away on October 26, 2013. She was born November 4, 1930 in Chicago. Longtime resident of Deerfield, Illinois, she most recently lived in Madison, Wisconsin. Loving mother of Leslie (Jeff Lindholm), Ben (Stephanie) and Matthew (Cynthia Price), proud grandmother of Hannah and Daniel Lindholm, Jacob and Cara Fields. Attended Von Steuben High School, the University of Illinois and the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts. Worked as an artist, most significantly in jewelry, metal enameling and cloisonné. She stood up for what she believed in, and was an outspoken advocate for a number of issues. She was particularly passionate about the environment and the outdoors, conveying these passions to a new generation as a Girl Scout leader, and working to protect the environment as secretary for the local chapter of the Sierra Club. She was also committed to social service, serving for many years as a reading and literacy tutor for disadvantaged children in her local school district, and also serving as an ESL "conversation buddy" for new immigrants. She was a lifelong learner, and loved to collect and read books of all kinds, particularly art books, science books and children's literature. Nearly every room in her home was lined with bookshelves. She was also was an enthusiastic dog person. A funeral service will be held at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, on Monday, October 28, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. with Rabbi Joshua Ben-Gideon presiding. Burial will follow at Beit Olamim Jewish Cemetery in Sunset Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to conservation or environmental organizations, or to organizations promoting literacy. Special thanks to Agrace Hospice and to our friend and neighbor, Jane, for their invaluable help in Mom's final days.