Russell Frederick Gatzke

80, was born in Startup, Washington to Gottlieb and Anna Gatzke. He entered into rest on October 4, 2010. Russ lived a long fun-filled life. He enjoyed going fishing, traveling in their motor home and house boating on Trinity Lake. Russ leaves his wife of 60 years (Shirley Gatzke/ Broughton); sons David (Meg) of Louisville, Kentucky and Mark (Patti) of Basking Ridge, New Jersey; daughter Debbie Reis and son-in-law Steve of McKinleyville, California; grandchildren Jason, Ben, Nikki, Ali, Colin, and Brandon; great-grandchildren Jessica, Amelia, and Cameron; brothers Wes (Marcia) of Sun City, Arizona; Clarence (Letta) of Startup, Washington and brother-in-law Roger (Marilyn) of Sultan, Washington; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends. Russ was a director for the Arcata Fire Department for 21 years, was a member of the Eureka Elks Lodge #652, and a member of the Eel River Good Sam's RV Club. A celebration of Russ's life will be held at the United Methodist Church of the Joyful Healer, 1944 Central Avenue in McKinleyville at 7:00pm on December 23rd. In lieu of flowers please consider a Memorial donation to the Church of the Joyful Healer, 1944 Central Avenue McKinleyville, Ca 95519 and/or the Arcata Fire Department, 631 9th St., Arcata, Ca 95521. Please sign the guest book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.