Leola E. Gatzke
Leola Gatzke (1949-2021) passed away suddenly on October 12, 2021. She was the heart of our tight-knit family and she will be missed more than she will ever know.
Lee is survived by her husband, Rich, of 49 years, and her 2 children Trish (Bryan) Sato and Kevin (Carrie) Gatzke. She was the very best Mom, Gaga, Sister-in-Law, Aunt, and Friend to so many. She was happiest when talking about her Grandchildren, Cate & Lily Sato, and Henry Gatzke. They were the loves of her life, and she was so proud of each of them.
She will forever be a star to all of us and guide us through our lives forever.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Stray Rescue of St. Louis, https://www.strayrescue.org.
For those who knew Lee, this is the perfect way to remember her.
Beautiful picture of Lee and Rich. Lee was a dear friend who I met over 40 years ago at AT&T. I will always treasure the memories and laughter. Lee LOVED her little family, both human and fur babies.
Prayers for Rich, Trish and her family, Kevin and his family. Rest In Peace Lee.
“The stars will go out before I forget you.”
Love, Susan Lovellette
Where do I begin to explain what a wonderful
Dear friend Lee was to to Joe and I. She was
So sweet snd caring. She was a wonderful person inside and out. We go back 60 plus years. We went to grade school and High
School together. She was in our wedding too.
Lee was like a sister to me and I love her
Very much. Our love and condolences to our
Dear friend Rich Trish Brian and the girls and
Kevin Maria and Henry. God bless you and your family during this very difficult time.
I worked with Lee many years ago at AT&T and I could tell how much she loved her family by the stories she told. Lee is one of the sweetest and kindest person I’ve ever met. Sympathy and prayers to all of the family.
RIP Lee.
My wife and I have known Lee and Rich for many years and in fact, they attended our 50th anniversary back in July of this year. We will certainly miss Lee and her personality and we wish Rich a speedy recovery. I can’t think of a nicer couple. Marva and Dan Heumann
Our hearts are heavy at Checkered Cottage as we learned of the sudden death of Lee. Her bright smile and wonderful support of our shop will always be a treasured memory. She encouraged Rich to participate in many classes at the shop. Our hearts, love, and hugs go out to Rich and the family. The Checkered Cottage crew – Susan, Robyn, Linda, Laura, Barb, Jan, Amy, and Mary.