Nathaniel J. Radwine

Nat was born in Taylorville, IL on March 13, 1956 to Leila and Harry Radwine. He graduated from Taylorville High School, where he was active in music and theater programs, and a member of the golf team. He was a member of ZBT Fraternity and was a member of The Marching Illini, The U of I Concert Band, and one of the University of Illinois Jazz Bands.

After graduation, Nat lived and worked in Aspen, Colorado. Upon returning to Springfield, he married Lisa Slifer (Wichterman). They have a son, Zach. Nat worked as a Bank Examiner for the State of Illinois. From 1981 to 1986, Nat and his brother, David, owned and operated Crow’s Mill School Tavern, restaurant, bar, and music club.

In 1987, Nat lived in Chicago, where he worked at the Chicago Board of Trade and The Chicago Mercantile Exchange. He returned to Springfield in 1991, married Carol Gehlbach, and became a real estate appraiser for the remainder of his working life. Nat and Carol have two daughters, Zoe and Mira. Nat has been active in the Springfield music community for many years, having both promoted and performed in various styles, including classical, rock, blues, jazz, and samba. He studied percussion internationally in Cuba and Brazil. Nat was on the Board of Directors of the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra and was a member of the Illinois Symphony Civic Orchestra. He was also a founding member and drummer for The Emerald Underground Celtic Fusion Band until his passing.

Nat’s parents preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Carol, son, Zach (Courtney) grandchildren Braxton, Julian, Cressida and Arden; daughter Zoe, grandson Ari; daughter Mira, brothers Sam (Wade Sisco) and David (Mark Brown) and many cherished cousins and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Monday March 3, 2025 at Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 East Allen Street, with burial to follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 9:30am until the time of service Monday at Bisch and Son. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra. https://www.ilsymphony.org and condolences may be left at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com.