Natalie "Nat" (Park) Prefontaine, 85, of New Bedford died Monday October 19, 2009 at Hathaway Manor Extended Care Facility after a long illness. She was the wife of the late Louis "Fred" Prefontaine.

Born and raised in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Kenneth C. and Madelin (Wyatt) Park. She was a graduate of New Bedford High School, Class of 1942, and also attended the Kinyon School.

She was a member of Pilgrim United Church of Christ, and belonged to the Mother's Club at the church.

Mrs. Prefontaine was formerly employed at Loring Studio on Spring St. for many years and cashiered at Keith Junior High School from 1965-1972. She also worked for Moby Dick Boy Scout Council as Business Manager, and at Camp Cachalot, Camp Noquochoke, and Camp Child with her husband for Old Colony Council.

Mrs. Prefontaine was a member of Rainbow Assembly #3 and belonged to the Rainbow Majority Club since 1943. She and her late husband enjoyed camping in their motor home and belonged to the Cape Codders Camping Group for a number of years. She enjoyed crafts, and spending time her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The door was always open in her home to her family and many friends.

Survivors include her two sons, Dennis R. Prefontaine and his wife Kathleen of Holliston, and Charles P. Prefontaine and his wife Nancy of Mattapoisett; two sisters, Rosamond Conn of New Bedford and Loretta Dillies of Westport; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Her Funeral Service will be held on Thursday at 10 AM at the Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Wednesday from 5-9 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Pilgrim United Church of Christ Music Fund, 635 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA 02740. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.