Andy Natker
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Andy Natker, who was a cherished member of the Haagen Company family for nearly 40 years. Andy retired from Haagen Company on April 30, 2021, after a distinguished career culminating as our Executive Vice President – Development & Leasing.
Andy was a partner at the Alexander Haagen Company, serving as Senior Project Developer from 1984 to 1996, and as Development Director from 1996 to 1998 at the Westfield Company. He rejoined the Haagen Company in October of 1998 as Senior Vice President of Development. Mr. Natker was responsible for the development and redevelopment of over 2.8 million square feet of retail development in Southern California. Prior to his association with the Haagen’s, he was Assistant Director for the City of Los Angeles’ Economic Development Department.
Andy’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence were cornerstones of our company’s success. His vision and contributions have left a lasting impact that will be remembered for years to come. Beyond his professional achievements, Andy was known for his kindness, generosity, and the genuine care he showed to everyone around him.
Al and Betty Haagen noted that “Andy was hired by Al Haagen Sr. from the City of Los Angeles where he was working in the business development department for Mayor Tom Bradley, a close friend of our family. Andy became a trusted associate and dear friend over the 36 years he worked for us. He set a standard of excellence in his work and was widely admired within our industry. We are grateful for the years we had with Andy. Our sincere condolences go out to Ros and their children and grandchildren.”
Reflecting on Andy’s impact, Don Kelley, President and Chief Financial Officer of Haagen Company, shared: “I was a partner with Andy for 24+ years at Haagen Company. He was so well known and admired in our industry. The few times I attended ICSC in Las Vegas with him, it was similar to attending a family reunion. He seemed to know everyone! He taught me so much about the craft of leasing based on his mantra of ‘Don’t ask…don’t get!’. His upbeat demeanor will be sorely missed. My wife once said she thought that part of Andy’s success at leasing is because he has a genuine manner which closes the sale without you feeling like you were sold something. I think he was a great listener and was interested in people. He wanted to actually hear what they were saying. I am truly blessed from Andy being in my life all these years. Juli and I send our love, sympathy, and share in the grieving for Andy’s passing with Ros, Blake, David, Josh, and their families.”
Chris Fahey, Partner at Haagen Company, also reflected on Andy’s legacy: “Andy was a great friend, colleague and partner for over 40 years. We grew together in our professional careers and shared a multitude of milestones together personally and professionally. I will miss him. He established himself as one of the standout professionals in our industry. His optimism and cheery personality were infectious. His enthusiasm for life and limitless commitment to his family, friends, colleagues and sailing partners has left a legacy that will be remembered for many years to come. My thoughts and love go out to his family as they navigate forward without him.”
Andy is survived by his loving wife Roslyn, his sons Blake, David, and Josh, his daughters-in-law, and grandchildren. He found great joy in sailing, traveling, and spending quality time with his family, who were his greatest pride and joy.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Andy’s family during this difficult time.Rest in peace, Andy. Your spirit and contributions will always be remembered and cherished.