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Honorable Burton F. Natarus

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Burton Natarus Obituary

Natarus, Honorable Burton F. Honorable Burton F. Natarus, age 86, of Chicago. Burt was a respected alderman, attorney and one of the longest-serving Democratic Alderman in Chicago history, serving from 1971 - 2008. Having won 9 elections for public office, Burt was widely recognized as a colorful alderman, who thought of himself as the "Janitor of the Ward". He worked tirelessly to ensure every resident of the 42nd ward was represented. He was also known in City Council as an expert in parliamentary procedures, and as the "master of the ordinance" for crafting much of the legislation that was passed in council during his aldermanic tenure. Burt was known for his flamboyant speeches and often made fun of himself. A resident of Chicago's Near North Side since 1960, Burt was born and raised in Wausau, Wisconsin. He was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and University of Wisconsin Law School. A graduate of the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, he later taught at Chicago's Loyola University on the subject of local government. He served in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserves, earning paratrooper's "jump wings". Burt was a true lover of the Chicago Bears, an avid reader and enjoyed rafting many rivers out west. Burt is survived by his son, Michael; daughter, Jill; and grandchildren, Jacob and Jenna. Graveside service will be private. Contributions may be made to The Anti-Cruelty Society, www.anticruelty.org, select "donate on behalf". Sign Guest Book at legacy.suntimes.com

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jun. 12, 2020.

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Aaron and Grace

June 8, 2021

We met Burt in our neighborhood after he retired. We would see him a couple times per week at a local coffee shop, where everyone knew his name. He shared many stories with anyone who took some time to listen. Such a jovial, nice, caring man. We will miss hearing his stories from his alderman days. RIP sir.

Dawn Brown Forsythe

September 24, 2020

I am so sorry to learn of Ald. Natarus' death. He was a character, and he also had character -- an honesty that was, shall we say, unique in that political era. I worked on one of his campaigns, and I value the time and experience of being his friend. Burt was a good man.

Dawn Brown Forsythe

September 24, 2020

I am so sorry to learn of Ald. Natarus' death. He was a character, and he also had character -- an honesty that was, shall we say, unique in that political era. I worked on one of his campaigns, and I value the time and experience of being his friend. Burt was a good man.

John and Mary Lou Daley

June 18, 2020

our deepest condolences to the Natarus family, John and Mary Lou Daley

James W Flint

June 15, 2020

One of the most wonderful people that I have met in my life time, compassionate, caring and a wonderful alderman of the 42nd ward.

Barbara Brun

June 15, 2020

Alderman Naturas was my Alderman for the 20 years I lived in his ward. He was a great Alderman and a great man. I always enjoyed running into him. He always took time to talk and listen to me. My condolences to his family.

Paul & Marilyn Kayman

June 13, 2020

Our deepest sympathy

S.J.B.

June 13, 2020

As a long time resident of his ward, I found Burt to be calm, accessible & responsive whether in a City Hall session, with George Dunne at the ancient hall at State & Oak or celebrating at Evening on Astor. He lived and breathed his job. A life well lived. Thank you for your service Burt.

Ray Hanania

June 13, 2020

Burt Natarus was a brilliant public servant who always offered a calm and reasoned approach to every major controversy. I met Burt when he was an Alderman in 1977 while covering the Chicago City Council. He was always fair and always clever with his comments. I always remember him asking in the City Council What about the horses? There are so many great quotes attributed to him you could write a book.

He was also compassionate and fair and always asked me about the Israel-Palestine conflict. I think i was the first Palestinian he met; respectful, and while we didnt always see eye-to-eye there was a compassion and desire for peace. One of City Halls more colorful Aldermen, very smart. He certainly will be missed.

Diana Levin

June 12, 2020

We were neighbors for many years and our children grew up together. Jill and Michael....your dad was a special person. He was a great dad and well as a wonderful alderman. He took care of us and our neighborhood for years. He truly will be missed. Fondly, Diana Levin

Brandon

June 12, 2020

Thinking of the family and wishing them comfort and peace

Dave

June 12, 2020

I always enjoyed Alderman Natarus and appreciate the work he did for the 42nd Ward. He was always accessible and would personally return calls and meet with constituents, a class act really. I miss him as Alderman and am grateful for the few times I ran into him after he was out of office. Id see him periodically at the cafe that he frequented and always enjoyed our conversations. He was smart, helpful, offered sage advice and had a colorful personality. He really made a positive impact in Chicago and cared about its residents.

Carla Rogers

June 12, 2020

To my friend Jill and her family, I offer my sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad and Grandfather. May you always hold loving memories of him in your hearts forever and may you find strength, comfort and peace during this time. Sending you love, thoughts and prayers.

Jerry Messner

June 12, 2020

Burt and Mr. Dunne. Up on the office, State and Oak, with Jesse White ....holding court. Im so damn proud this guy got a chance to witness it all.

Jennifer Loftus-Maloney

June 11, 2020

Burt was a special man who truly cared about the City of Chicago and did a fantastic Job as the Alderman of the 22nd ward for 37 years representing his fellow neighbors. I was very fortunate to be his friend and have many fond memories of spending time with Burt he was a true gentleman. My sincere condolences to his family who Burt was very proud of, Burt was one of kind and a class act and will be truly missed! Rest In Peace Burt.

Les

June 11, 2020

As a policeman working in the 18th district it was common to see the Alderman walking the neighborhood checking on businesses and people who were sometimes loud or disorderly. He was very much a gentleman and I often wished I could live in his ward or other Aldermen had the same hands on approach and devotion to the job. I never spoke with him however I believe he was one of the finest Aldermen this city has ever had. My condolences to the family.

Rosemary Paleologos

June 11, 2020

Mr. Natarus will forever be remembered as a loving and caring man.
Mr. Natarus adored his grandchildren and I can see in his smile every time I would be at Jills house for any celebrations , how much he loved his daughter.
It was certainly a blessing to have known him for the 30 plus years.
May Mr.Natarus Rest In Peace.

Kim Diana

June 11, 2020

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. Our condolences to his family.

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