Elmo Natali, 92, of California, Pa., passed away peacefully in Virginia Beach, Va., on May 28, 2019, leaving behind his wife of 73 years, Norma Bead-ling Natali; three children, James Allen (Beth), Jamie Beadling (Vicki), and Jeanne Beth (Kate); four grandchildren, Jamie Natali, Jesse Isaly, Joshua Natali and Alison Natali; five great-grandchildren, Madison Knight, Peyton Natali, Maci Isaly, Channing Isaly and Finley Isaly; and a host of nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends. He is predeceased by brothers, Victor Natali, Louis Natali and Americo Natali; and sisters, Elsie Delmastro, Mafalda Revetta, Lena Bardelli and Edith Serra. Elmo dedicated over five decades of his life to California University of Pennsylvania, where he excelled as a student-athlete in the 1950s and served as a teacher, coach, dean, and vice president. In retirement, Elmo relished his most important life’s role as “Papaw.” He loved nothing more than to be surrounded by family, good food and laughter. Born in 1927 in Gallatin to Attilio and Theresa Tomassi Natali, Elmo excelled in athletics at Monessen High School. After serving his country in Europe in World War II, Elmo attended California State Teachers College and played football from 1950-1953. As a standout running back, Elmo was drafted by the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League. An injury he sustained in college prevented him from playing professional football. Elmo received his bachelor’s degree from California State Teachers College in 1953, and his master’s degree from West Virginia University in 1958. From 1953-1961, Elmo served as a classroom teacher and football coach at Monongahela Junior High School, and he continued coaching after being promoted to elementary supervisor of the Monongahela School District. In 1962, he began his career at California State College as a professor of education and assistant football coach, positions he held until 1966, when he accepted a teaching post at Broward County Community College in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Elmo returned to his alma mater in 1967 and remained at California until his retirement in 1992. In 1977, Elmo was promoted to vice president of student development. He was known for his firm but fair approach to student development. Highly regarded in his role as vice president, Elmo was called “the tone and pulse of the campus” for his ability to advocate for students. His dedication helped California University of Pennsylvania become a premier academic and athletic institution. Elmo received many awards and accolades during his career. In 1992, the California Memorial Student Union on campus was renamed The Elmo Natali Student Center in his honor, and a Doctor of Humane Letters was conferred on Elmo by the California University of Pennsylvania Council of Trustees in 2018. Elmo also received the John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service in 1983, and the Italian American Heritage Society Distinguished Citizen Award. His football jersey number, 34, was retired at the university, and he was inducted into the California University of Pennsylvania Hall of Fame. Elmo was also inducted into the Mid Mon Valley All Sports Hall of Fame in 1977. A private burial will be held in Monongahela Cemetery. FRYE FUNERAL HOME INC. is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fryefuneralhome.com.
