Nathaniel passed away peacefully at his home in Larchmont, NY, on April 9, 2026, at the age of 96, with his beloved wife Annabelle by his side. Born on May 17, 1929, Nathaniel was the cherished son of Yetta and Victor Siegel, who predeceased him.

Nathaniel was born in Brooklyn, NY. He was a terrible athlete and instead poured his attention and energy into academic achievements. He graduated with a BA from Brooklyn College. His thirst for knowledge led him to New York University, where he earned both an MA and a Ph.D. in Sociology, laying the foundation for a remarkable career in academia.

In 1958, Nathaniel married the love of his life, Annabelle Replansky, whom he met at graduate school at NYU, embarking on a journey of love, partnership, and laughter that spanned 68 extraordinary years. Nathaniel is survived by his devoted wife, Annabelle; his children, Tony (Sandra) and Jennifer (Joe); his adored grandchildren, Samantha, Michael (Makayla), and Emily; and his great-granddaughter, Sophia. He is also survived by his brother Joe and nephews Mitchell and Ken, along with countless friends and family who remember him fondly.

Nathaniel’s career was a testament to his dedication to improving the world through understanding and education.

He served as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Purchase College. His previous roles included serving as interim President, Vice President, Provost, and Dean of Faculty at Queens College, and as Chief of the Social Sciences Training Branch at the National Institute of Mental Health. As a research sociologist at Hillside Hospital and as an Assistant Professor at Columbia University, Nathaniel made significant contributions to the field of Sociology.

His work focused on the treatment of physical and mental health problems, alcoholism and addictions, and the assessment of mental health programs. His expertise was sought by prestigious organizations, including the National Institute of Mental Health and the President’s Commission on National Violence.

During the Korean War, he served with the U.S. Army.

Nathaniel approached life on his own terms. Last May, he was discharged home with just three weeks to live, but he wasn’t yet ready, and it took a year before he finally succumbed to his illness. The Dylan Thomas poem “Go Not Gently Into That Good Night” could have been written about him. Known for his wry sense of humor, he could always lighten a room with his wit. He was a man of simple pleasures, finding joy in a good cup of coffee, a Danish, and an academic journal. Nathaniel had a passion for tinkering with antique clocks and watches, over-gluing repair jobs, doing hazardous electrical wiring, and immersing himself in the pages of both The New Yorker and The New York Times. He enjoyed intellectual discourse and would spend countless hours researching any topics that stoked his curiosity.

Although Nathaniel has departed from this world, his legacy lives on through his family and the thousands of students, colleagues, and peers he inspired throughout his career. His life was a testament to the value of education and the importance of family. He will be remembered with love and admiration by all who were fortunate to know him. He was happiest when he saw others excel both academically and in life. He was selfless and always worried about others before he worried about himself.

For those interested, donations can be made in Nathaniel’s memory to:

Queens College Foundation https://qccommunity.qc.cuny.edu/QueensCollege/DonateNow

Purchase College Foundation https://www.purchase.edu/give-to-purchase/give/

Doctors Without Borders https://give.doctorswithoutborders.org

As we say goodbye to Nathaniel, let us celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Nathaniel’s family would like to extend their sincere thanks to his home health aides, Nicholina and Matilda, and the nurses and staff of Calvary Hospice for their wonderful care and support.