James "Jim" Merwin Gatgens

Born in Batavia, New York, Jim was the son of Harry and Julia Gatgens. After graduating from Notre Dame High School in Batavia, New York, he attended the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he earned his Associate’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked for PraxAir for 32 years in various positions, most notably as a Senior Regional Technical Supervisor, before “retiring” in 1993. He was also responsible for bringing the first Subway franchises to Etowah County in 1988.

He was a member of Saint James Catholic Church for 46 years, and a member of the Gadsden Geeters Men’s Group. He enjoyed fishing and boating on the Coosa River.

Jim is survived by his wife Judy, his children Mary Gatgens, Lynne (Scott) Walker, Kevin (Tiphanie) Gatgens, and grandchildren Jillian Walker, Jackson Gatgens, Sophia Gatgens, Lucas Gatgens, and Phoebe Gatgens. He is also survived by his brother David (Janice) Gatgens of Batavia, New York, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral mass will be held at Saint James Catholic Church in Gadsden, Alabama, on Saturday, March 26th with visitation beginning at 10:00 am with service beginning at 11:00 am.

The family wants to send a special thanks to Earnest “Big E” Wallace, Brian Hoskins, Rainbow City Fire and Rescue, an Amedisys Home Health.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Rainbow City Fire and Rescue.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.collier-butler.com for the Gatgens family.