Joseph Natalie

Saratoga Springs, NY — Joseph "Joe Poe" Natalie, 79, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 5, 2026 following a courageous battle with lung cancer, with his loving family by his side.

Born in Saratoga Springs, New York, Joe was the son of the late Jake and Helen (Bennett) Natalie. He was a graduate of St. Peter's High School and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970. During his military service, he was stationed in Vietnam, where he served in security.

Following his honorable discharge, Joe began a long career with the Shenendehowa Central School District, where he worked as a night supervisor until his retirement in 2005.

Joe met Joanne Braim, while they were both working at Ellsworth's Ice Cream. They were married on September 24, 1988, and built a wonderful life together in Saratoga Springs, sharing nearly 38 years of love, laughter, and cherished memories. As a family, they found great happiness camping and fishing, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

Joe enjoyed spending Tuesday evenings with his bowling league, Friday nights playing cards with family and friends, and rarely missed an opportunity to visit the harness track to cheer on—and wager on—his favorite horses. Joe was always willing to lend a helping hand to any friend or family member in need, no questions asked, and he was glad to do it.

In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his brother, Anthony Natalie; his brother-in-law, Douglas Braim; and his parents-in-law, Joseph and Beatrice Braim.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne (Braim) Natalie; his brothers, Gennaro Natalie and Thomas Natalie; his sister, Clara Donaldson; his brother-in-law, Don Braim (Elaine); and his sisters-in-law, Susan Briggs and Joyce Tourtellot (Jay).

He is also survived by his children, Charles Natalie of Helena, Montana, Nick Natalie of Missoula, Montana, Jennifer Delaney of Greenfield Center, New York, and Jason Delaney (Christine) of Greenfield Center, New York. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Fallon Toole, Gianna Toole, Caden Kindl, Zachary Delaney, Olivia Delaney, Cecilia Delaney, Austin Natalie, Alexys Stahl, and Kallie Natalie; as well as great-grandchildren, Hallie and Hayden, and many nieces and nephews.

Joe will be remembered for his quiet strength, his unwavering dedication to his family, his proud military service, and the friendships he built throughout his life. He found joy in the simple pleasures—time with family, a good game of bowling, a day at the track, and the outdoors. His kindness, sense of humor, and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY. A funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Burial with military honors will take place at 2:30 p.m. at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

Following the burial, family and friends are invited to celebrate Joe's life at 4:00 p.m. at the Italian American Mutual Aid Association (ITAM), 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Saratoga WarHorse - A foundation assisting Veterans through connection with rescued and retired race horses.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com