Obituary: Natalie W. Crate, 41, Former Romney Aide

Natalie W. Crate, 41, of Beverly, loving mother, adoring wife, devoted daughter and caring friend, passed away peacefully in the company of her family on Monday, July 7, 2014, after a long and valiant battle with illness. Natalie was married to Bradley Crate, formerly of Rumson, N.J. She was a close aide to Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney during his 2002 gubernatorial and 2008 presidential campaigns as well as during his term as governor, and was widely recognized for her professional and community contributions.

A native of Toronto, Ontario, Natalie was born on June 27, 1973. She was an alumna of Havergal College, an independent girls school, and earned a B.A. degree in Political Science, with honors, from Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, in 1996. While at Queen's University, she was active in the Model United Nations Program and also participated in the university's exchange program at Herstmonceux Castle in East Sussex, England.

Natalie had a longstanding love of politics. After college, she served as a legislative assistant and policy advisor for Ontario's Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Tourism. Subsequently, she was Policy Advisor for Tourism and Gaming in the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.

Intelligent, curious and quietly confident, Natalie left Canada in 2002 to expand her experience on Canadian political campaigns by working on one in America. A friend who was working on Mitt Romney's 2002 gubernatorial campaign suggested she join it, and she moved to Massachusetts. Recognized for her poise and polite, but fierce, loyalty, Natalie became a Special Assistant to the Romneys, and worked closely with Governor and Mrs. Romney in various capacities, including special assistant in his office managing schedules, logistics and public relations and serving as a gatekeeper for the governor. When Romney launched his run for president in 2007, she oversaw scheduling and coordinated delegate tour schedules and briefings. In later years, she worked as a freelance writer focusing on politics and government.

It was during the 2002 campaign that Natalie met her husband of 10 years, Bradley Crate, founder and CEO of Red Curve Solutions, who survives her together with their 8-year-old daughter, Helena Reagan Crate. Soon after Natalie's diagnosis in 2007, Red Curve was established in Beverly where the family had settled to enable Natalie and Brad to focus on cherishing time with their family and friends.

Recognized for her leadership in community affairs, Natalie was involved in the Women's Fund of Essex County and the Trustees of the Reservations. She also was a supportive parent and active volunteer at the Brookwood School, where her daughter will enter the third grade this fall. Natalie sought to contribute to the Brookwood community as soon as she joined it, and was involved in activities such as serving as a class parent, various school committees and as a supporter of the Brookwood School Auction, a major school fundraiser. Beyond her civic commitment, Natalie was an avid rower, an eager tennis player and an enthusiastic sports fan.

Above all else, Natalie's life was centered on family. She was tireless in her devotion to her daughter, Helena, and unabashed by the completeness of the joy Helena gave her. She loved to read with her and play tennis with her. Natalie shared her passion for travel and her curiosity to see new places with Helena. She was supportive and proud of Helena's many interests and talents, and so gratified by Helena's enjoyment of school, and in playing piano, singing and taking ballet lessons with her friends. These became Natalie's favorite activities as well.

Natalie is survived by a large and caring family that includes: Barbara W. Smith; Richard P. Smith; William R. Crate; Marion K. Crate; Darrell W. Crate; Nancy B. Crate; William R. Crate II; Emma W. Crate; Audrey T. Crate; Elizabeth L. Crate and Helena R. Crate. She was predeceased by Jan Waczko and Helena Okonowski.

Visitors are invited to pay their respects from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2014 at the Campbell Funeral Home at 525 Cabot St. in Beverly. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 12, 2014 at St. John's Episcopal Church at 705 Hale St. in Beverly Farms. Following a private family burial, a reception will be held for guests at 45 Oak St. in Beverly Farms. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Natalie's memory to Stop3.org, a foundation dedicated to brain cancer research, at 500 Cummings Center, Suite 4400, Beverly, MA. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.