John is survived by the love of his life for over 39 years Kim Walters Gatzke and his son Andrew John Gatzke, to whom he was the most devoted and loving father. He is also survived by his sister, Carol Ann Gatzke, Brother-in-Law and Sister-in Law Freddie and Vickie Walters, nieces Lindsey Rodrigue and Victoria Walters; nephews, Zachary and Joshua Walters, Brent (Cheri), Reed and Kyle Lyons as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. John was preceded in death by his parents Gustave and Elizabeth Gatzke, his mother-in law Nicolina Markey Walters, father-in-law Fred J. Walters, sister-in-law Barbara Walters Sharp and brother-in-law A.J. Walters.
John was a wonderful family man and friend. He would do anything for anyone. He enjoyed golfing with his coworkers, was a member of a bowling team at Colonial Bowling Lanes for many years and enjoyed many water sports. He loved spending time with his family and friends having backyard get-togethers, frying turkeys, and boiling crawfish. He loved celebrating mardi gras and other parades, cheering the New Orleans Saints, attending weekend concerts and festivals, traveling, cruising, and just enjoying life. John also enjoyed volunteering with the Northern Ireland Ulster Project of New Orleans, which bring Protestant and Catholic communities together.
John also leaves behind his “fuzzy” friend, Gizmeaux who is missing him dearly. John loved taking the Giz for walks, rides in the car, and visits to the doggie park. The family wishes to thank the Nurses, Doctors, and Others at Ochsner Hospital for their compassionate care. They were truly wonderful and caring professionals.
A service will be held at Atonement Lutheran Church, 6500 Riverside Drive, Metairie, LA 70003 on Saturday, March 13, 2021 at 11:00 am, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Please follow Covid guidance and mask requirements.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in John’s memory to the Ulster Project of New Orleans-C/O Jon Glueck, 1145 Elmeer Ave., Metairie, LA 70005; or, to Atonement Lutheran Church-6500 Riverside Drive, Metairie, LA 70003.
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