James ‘Gatz’ R. Gatzke

Published February 18, 2021 at 10:14 AM

James ‘Gatz’ R. Gatzke, 77, of Superior, died Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at Essentia-St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth.

James was born in Superior on Nov. 1, 1943 the son of Russell and Albertine (Solem) Gatzke. He married Bonnie Toya on Aug. 8, 1970 and they celebrated 33 years of marriage together until her passing in 2003.

He served his country in the US Army. He was an Engineer for the CNW Railroad and owned and operated the Office Bar in East End. James enjoyed hunting, golfing, fishing, and football.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bonnie; and brothers-in-law, Robert O’Rourke and Gary Regenfuss.

James is survived by his children, Cory Gatzke of Superior and Kimberly (Roger) Moore of Superior; grandchildren, Austin James and Nikolas Dean Moore; and sister, Janis O’Rourke of Duluth.

Visitation will be on Thursday, February 25th from 11:00 until the Noon funeral service at Downs Funeral Home, 1617 N 19th St. Gary Banker will officiate.

Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post #435.

To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.downsfh.com.