Service Details
Services celebrating Eric’s life will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 4:00 pm. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Saturday from 2:00 – 4:00 pm.
To honor Eric, everyone is welcome to wear camo or their favorite sports team wear.
In accordance with Racine County mandate, only 50 people will be allowed to enter the funeral home at a time. You may be required to wait outside until others leave the building. For the safety and security of our guests we also require those in attendance to wear a face covering. We thank everyone for their understanding and cooperation during this difficult time.
Memorial Suggestions
In memory of Eric, memorials may be made to “Tina Gatzke” for the benefit of Eric’s precious children, Giana & Vinny.
Racine – Eric Michael Gatzke, age 42; passed away unexpectedly, as the result of a sudden heart attack, on Monday, June 15, 2020.
Eric was born in Racine on November 11, 1977 to Michael & Diane (nee: Iverson) Gatzke. He was a 1996 graduate of Washington Park High School. On December 2, 2000 in Saint Lucy Catholic Church, he was united in marriage with his soulmate and loving wife, Tina Louise Domanico. With a profound work ethic, always willing to work extra hours when needed, Eric was a dedicated employee and would do whatever he could to help his co-workers out: training, troubleshooting or helping with a project. He was employed at SC Johnson Wax for almost 20yrs.
Among his interests, Eric was an extreme outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping & trail riding on his utility terrain vehicle, master of smoking Ribs and brisket in his Pit Barrel, tending to his impeccable yard – often cutting his grass a few times per week, and was a tremendous sports fan – with watching his children’s games being his favorite. Although Eric was a man of few words (most of the time)…he was an excellent listener…and when he did speak up – it was the truth. Above all, Eric was a loving husband, fantastic father and devoted son, who loved spending time with his entire family.
Surviving are his beautiful wife, Tina; their children, Giana Louise Gatzke (age 11) and Vincenzo Michael Gatzke (age 8); parents, Michael & Diane Gatzke; sister, Sherry Kaminskis; mother-in-law, Joan Domanico; sister-in-law, Lisa Domanico; brother-in-law, John (Ildiko) Domanico, Jr.; nieces & nephews, Arianna Kiesler; Luigina “Gina”, Mario & Sarah Graceffa; and Maggie Domanico; other relatives & many faithful friends – too numerous to mention all by name. Eric was greeted in Heaven by his father-in-law, John Domanico, Sr. and Uncle Charles Domanico.
Services celebrating Eric’s life will be held in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 4:00 pm. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Saturday from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. In memory of Eric, memorials may be made to “Tina Gatzke” for the benefit of Eric’s precious children, Giana & Vinny.
To honor Eric, everyone is welcome to wear camo or their favorite sports team wear.
In accordance with Racine County mandate, only 50 people will be allowed to enter the funeral home at a time. You may be required to wait outside until others leave the building. For the safety and security of our guests we also require those in attendance to wear a face covering. We thank everyone for their understanding and cooperation during this difficult time.
Rich and Barb Fellion says
We have no words to express our sadness in hearing of Eric’s passing. We send you all our love and prayers to help you through your difficult times ahead. ❤️
Gracie Schott says
Tina, my deepest condolences to you and your family, so sorry to hear this. If you need anything please feel free to ask.
Mary Pavlat says
So very sorry for your loss. My most sincere condolences to you all.
Dan & Angel Hempel says
Our condolences to the Gatzke family. Eric was a great guy with a huge smile. Sorry for your loss. Heavens gained a really special angel. Rest in peace Eric.
Geno Sems says
One of my oldest friends so sad you’re gone but you will never be forgotten. Until we meet again old friend
Joe Kraus retired 363 says
Eric “Shrek” you will be fondly remembered by myself and family. THE Happy hunting grounds just recieved a gem!
Greg Brown says
I only knew Eric from work, but let it be known Eric was a man of integrity and bigger than life. SCJ should rename his home aerosol line “The Gatzke.” God bless!
Sue DeMark Brown says
I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with you all
Christine McMullen says
Eric had no filter and I loved him for that!! And I was there when he and his wife met…he lovedTina so much and his children so much!! He is so much missed at work…he gave everything to make someone at work better!! I love you Tina!!! And my heart hurts for the loss you and your kids are hurting..I cannot imagine… prayers to you all for peace.
H. Griffin says
You were a great guy… I want to thank you for all the times you came and helped me out the jokes we had through the rough times… When I say I’ll always be remember you I mean that…. Thank you rest easy and my condolences to your family
Pamela Gursky says
I’m truly sorry for your loss. As stated he was someone with few words but never passed by without a nod or a smile. Prayers to you and your family Tina.
Pamela Gursky ❤
Joe and Shirley Simonson says
We have known Eric since he was a beautiful baby, we have watched him grow into a wonderful man. He will leave big hole’s in hearts as he will be sadly missed. Our condolences to his entire family.
Bill and Barb Haenel - Rhinelander says
Oh Tina and family…what sad news. Please know that our sympathies are with you all.
Kim and Eric Haigh says
There are no words that express the sadness this news brought. Eric was a treasured friend, and our hearts are broken for his family. Sending all our love and prayers!
Angela and Ralph Gemignani says
Dear Tina, We are so deeply sorry for your sudden loss . Our sympathy to you and all of your beautiful family. May the support and love of your family help to bring comfort to you in the days ahead.
Lynn Booker says
My prayers and condolences to you Tina and your Family may God continue to bless and give you strength. RIP Eric 😇
Lynn Booker
Denise Prough says
I am so sorry for your loss your family will be in my prayers.
Traci and Tony Eaton says
Our deepest condolences Tina and family. We all loved and enjoyed our time spent with Eric. He made working with him a special time. His smile and laugh will last a life time with fond memories. Sending you all HUGS. Tony and Traci.
Anonymous says
Condolences to the Gatzke family from Juan and Lucy Martinez
Lori Miller Torres says
Oh Mike and Diane, I am so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mark and Nickie Tarwid says
Mike and Diane,
So very sorry for your loss. Watching Eric growing up into a fine young man throughout the years, I know that you are so proud of him. Words cannot express the sorrow in our hearts for you and his wife and kids. Our prayers go out to your entire family 🙏 🙏🙏💔 with love, Mark and Nickie
Mary Perrine says
Dear Tina and Family. No words could ever express the deepest sympathy I have for you and your family. I am so sorry to hear about Eric. May he rest in peace and may the memories and the love you shared get you thru this most difficult time. I will keep him in my prayers. Hugs my friend.
Willie Poole says
Tina and family,
I am truly saddened that our beloved Eric has passed away. Eric was a favorite of mine from the moment I met him. He had such a great disposition and he made me proud to know him. I will always remember playing softball with Eric and watching him blasting home runs. He will always have a place in my heart and I will miss him very much. Please accept my family’s sincere condolences along with our prayers for you all. Sending you much love, and hugs.
T Bird says
Miss you big Snoop
Sally and Rich Larrin says
Deepest sympathy to the family.
Larry Lieburn says
So very sorry for your family’s loss. Eric was a great person and I’m glad I got to know him and work with him at JWax.
Kevin Briscoe says
It seems like yesterday i was talking to him in the break room at work. He was so funny and genuinely wanted to know how you were doing. He will truly be missed to all that knew him, my blessings go out to his entire family!
Beth Verbeten says
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Julie Carls-Mohrbacher says
The Gatzke Family ~ I am truly so sorry for your deep loss; my condolences to the entire family and most of all, Eric’s children. My heart breaks for them. Rest in peace, Eric; you will be deeply missed.
Keith and Analyn Belongia says
So very sorry to hear of your loss. Watched Eric as a young boy and had the pleasure to work with him years later. He was a good man.
Don , Cindy,Emily and Paul says
Sorry for your lose he was a good man
Gino & Kelly Modesti says
To my good friend Eric, I knew you since you were a kid. I always appreciate your genuine personality and straight forward attitude. I enjoyed watching you grow and become a awesome father and wonderful husband to your family. I will look forward meeting you at the gates of paradise at Gods kingdom of heaven someday. RIP till we meet again! My prayers and thoughts are with you and your beautiful family! Love you buddy!
Tina I am so deeply sorry for your loss you have my sympathy and prayers take care God bless you says
Tina I am so deeply sorry for your loss you have my sympathy and prayers , take care ,God bless you!
Ripoli Family says
Our Deepest Sympathies. 🙏🙏❤️❤️
Yolanda Davison says
So sorry Tina to hear of your families loss. May you and yours be upheld by The Lords mighty right arm and may He give all of your your hearts much peace. Dennis & Yolanda Davison
Sara Gilbert says
Our prayers and deepest sympathy to you and your family. Eric touched many lives and is greatly missed. He was a great role model of hard work and dedication to all those he worked. Thank you for sharing his time and energy with all of us!