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.

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.