In Loving Memory
Natalie L. Rubel
May 8, 1978 - February 2, 2019

VISITATION
Saturday, February 23, 2019
1:00 - 6:00 P.M.
Martin-Mattice Funeral Home
Ruthven, Iowa

Natalie Lynn Rubel, daughter of Ken Rubel Jr and Jane ( Christoffer) Rubel, began her rookie season here on earth May 8,1978 in Emmetsburg Iowa. She was delivered a fast ball that she was not able to hit or foul off on Feb. 2, 2019 in Mankato Minnesota.

Natalie was raised in Ruthven and graduated from Ruthven-Ayrshire High School in May 1996. The game plan that she had for her life was forever changed in September of 1996 when she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Altering her plans she attended ILCC for two years and went on to graduate from Capri College in Cedar Rapids with a degree in Massage Therapy.

Her love for life became apparent at a very early age. She could and would talk to anyone who would take the time to listen to her. Everyone was a " friend ". Who knew that her adeptness at "friending" would become her lifeline to the outside world in the latter stages of her life.

She loved her St. Louis Cardinals and was able to attend several games over the years, including one last summer, with family and friends by her side in Minneapolis. She proudly wore her black and gold while cheering for the Hawkeyes but was starting to waiver slightly on her loyalty to the Dolphins (they suck-her words).

We are forever grateful to the many people who took the time to visit her while she was confined the last four years. Especially Cousin Tim-for spending time with her while he was home—friend Bruce Johnson-for being with her in Rochester for nearly every surgery and hospitalization—Todd Sampson and Jason Weber-for checking in with her every day to see how she was feeling—Cousin Bill- for helping her to keep her sarcasm skills finely honed—Cousin Carrie-for so many things but especially naming your beautiful baby after her—Cousin Loren-her absolute kindred spirit throughout her life—Aunts Janet and Jackie and Uncle Mike -who were by her side for the entire journey. THANK YOU!!!!

Natalie was greeted at the Main Entrance Gate by her Grandparents Lorraine Christoffer and Ken and Neva Rubel, Aunts Nancy Hanson and Betty Fisher, her Uncles Al Fisher and Frank Petska and her Cousin Lori Hanson.

She is survived by her parents Ken and Jane Rubel of Ruthven, her sister Jennifer Rubel of Bettendorf and her niece Sydney Walker of Bettendorf, many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends.

Please wear your favorite team colors to her Celebration of Life visitation.

Please consider giving the gift of life by registering to become an organ donor.
iowadonornetwork.org
800-831-4131

Arrangements by Martin-Mattice Funeral Home